One way to fight child obesity

I AM writing in my capacity as president of the Association of Teachers of Home Economics (ATHE) to express our disappointment at the lack of acknowledgement of home economics by the report of the National Task Force On Obesity.

Among the recommendations from the report was that “in the education sector... skills programmes which teach and develop training in basic food preparation and budgeting should be introduced in schools”.

The report also pointed out that “cooking facilities and the ability to prepare food also influences the type of food consumed”.

“As children become adults and leave home their cooking skills may soon encompass only foods that are convenient and easy to prepare.

“Food skills such as handling, hygiene, shopping and storage should be identified and promoted as life skills which are essential in influencing dietary behaviour.”

Home economics is singularly well placed to contribute to the development of these skills and the knowledge required to enable young people to make healthy food choices.

Uniquely in home economics the study of food is integrated with the study of nutrition, food science and the acquisition of culinary and social skills. Home economics at junior cycle aims to provide students with the knowledge, skills and attitudes to make effective choices.

The key components are food studies, resource management and consumer studies which are of particular relevance in light of the report on obesity.

Home economics addresses all aspects of family life and daily living such as food and nutrition, healthy living, clothing and shelter, childcare, interpersonal relationships and consumer behaviour.

The unifying focus is responsible decision-making and purposeful managerial action. For the reasons outlined above the Association of Teachers of Home Economics strongly recommend that home economics be made a mandatory subject at junior cycle for all students.

The Association of Teachers of Home Economics also recommends that home economics be introduced at primary school level.

Home economics is a well established and highly acclaimed subject in our second-level education system.

It is our view that home economics as a mandatory subject can play a vital role in educating young people and equipping them with knowledge and skills to make healthy choices.

I strongly urge the Department of Education and Science to implement home economics as a mandatory subject in the continuing battle against obesity.

Mary Dunlea

National President

Association of Teachers of Home Economics

Rossrehill

Ballylooby

Cahir

Co Tipperary.