Unhealthy School Snacks as a Hidden Threat to Cognitive Development of Elementary School-Aged Children

Abstract

 Unhealthy and low-nutrient school snacks are a serious concern in the world of education and child health, especially regarding their impact on students’ cognitive development. This study aims to explore how the consumption of unhealthy snacks disrupts students’ concentration and impacts the quality of thinking, especially at the age of elementary school children. This research used a qualitative approach with an intrinsic case study research type, conducted at SD X private school located in Pasuruan Regency. The school has a fairly high activity of snacks in the surrounding environment because the location is on the edge of a large highway. Data were collected through interviews with students, class teachers and parents, as well as direct observation in the school environment and canteen. The results showed that students often routinely consume snacks that are high in sugar, contain vetsin, artificial coloring and low in nutritional content. Teachers and parents observed that students get tired easily, lack focus when learning, and concentration and even lead to health problems. The main factors supporting this habit are lack of nutrition education, limited parental supervision and the presence of unhealthy food vendors outside and around schools. This study recommends the need for collaboration between schools, parents and policy makers to create a healthy eating environment as a preventive effort to maintain health and protect the cognitive development of primary school-aged children