Ithaca College assistant professor Ashley Mason and the students in her occupational therapy group research class spent a year studying lunchroom dynamics and discovered a compelling fact at a local elementary school. The children there felt their cafeteria was too noisy, eating time was limited, and lunchroom expectations were unclear. Collaborating with 12 graduate students, Mason worked with kindergarten through fifth-grade students to implement a new lunchtime program. The initiative aimed to foster a more positive lunchroom experience through small group discussions on transitions, friendship, respect, boundaries, and the sensory aspects of food.
Shaping a Healthier Lunchtime at a Local Elementary School
"The cafeteria got a bit quieter, and my class did get better at transitions. It was really fun to experience!”
Sofia, age 10, student