Nutrition and Physical Activity as Protective Factors in Eliminating the Achievement Gap

N

5

Achievement Gap; Disadvantaged Youth; At Risk Students; Nutrition; Physical Activity Level; Intervention; Advocacy; Policy; Food; Physical Activities; Child Health; Obesity

0164-775X

There is much attention placed on closing the achievement gap among socioeconomically disadvantaged students. However, what some may fail to take into account is the impact of poor quality, low-nutrition foods and limited access to physical activity on children's academic outcomes. Disadvantaged youth are at risk for poor nutrition and limited access to physical activity, which may negatively impact their educational outcomes. School psychologists can play a critical role in this area with respect to the implementation of universal interventions, advocacy, and policy changes that will improve the outcomes of these students. This paper will explore the discrepancies that affect disadvantaged youth in the areas of achievement and will highlight the potential of quality nutrition and enhanced physical activity as protective factors in eliminating the achievement gap. Moreover, the implementation of universal interventions, advocacy, and policy will be discussed to demonstrate the feasibility and necessity for targeting these issues for the nation's disadvantaged youth to improve the academic outcomes for those children who need it most.

ERIC

2019

EJ1204092