The Importance of Lunchtime

Back when I was attending school, one of the most important times of the day was lunchtime. First, because I was hungry! I especially loved Thursday when pizza was served. Second, like most school kids, it was the time I got to associate with my peers and form bonds with friends. Plans were made for hanging out after school and crushes could be spied on across the tables. Whether we want to admit it or not, lunchtime is detrimental to kids’ development.

So, I began to wonder: how does this important time of day affect kids if they have no one to eat with during lunchtime?

I was fortunate to share lunchtime with friends from all the way back in elementary school. I also attended a special elementary school that specifically educated students with disabilities. When the time came to move to other schools for middle and high school, most of us moved together. Knowing I had my group of friends to share lunchtime with really eased my mind. I think if I’d have had to eat alone during my school years, it would’ve made me sad.

I know not all kids want to share lunchtime with others and that’s ok. But I am extremely sad for the ones who do and cannot find anyone to share in their space and time.

Research shows that socialization is key in child development. During adolescence, kids develop their character and emotions. Empathy, for example, is something that hopefully become embedded in their mind and continues to grow along with the child into adulthood. Lunchtime is one of the best times to learn some of these skills, since you can meet and learn about all sorts of other students. Where you sit, who you sit with, and how you interact with others matters.

As you can see, lunchtime is much more than just eating a meal. It’s a chance to belong – and who doesn’t want that?

February 20^th is “No One Eats Alone Day”, so grab one of your homies and go enjoy lunch! And if you see someone eating alone, ask if you can join. Who knows? You might just make a new friend.