Food

Poor nutrition due to lack of disposable income to spend on nutritious and non-packaged food (Howard 2001)

• Weaker immune system

  • More risk of illness

    • More absences from school due to illness

      • More lesson content missed and less time with teacher

        • Lower grades/academic underachievement

• M/c children have a strong immune system due to better nutrition

  • Less risk of illness

    • Fewer absences from school

      • More lesson content and teacher support available

        • Reach full academic potential

Poor nutrition due to lack of disposable income to spend on nutritious and non-packaged food (Howard 2001)

• Lower energy levels due to lack of necessary vitamins and minerals

  • Difficulty concentrating in class

    • Less lesson content covered as teachers adapt to the needs of students who are struggling to stay engaged

      • Lower grades/academic underperformance

• M/c students have all the vitamins and minerals needed to maintain focus and concentration

  • Arrive at school refreshed and ready to learn

    • No difficulties concentrating so can make fast/expected progress

      • Reach full academic potential

1 in 5 low-income families report skipping meals