A few weeks ago, I found myself back in the bustling environment of a school cafeteria, volunteering my time once more. For two hours, I witnessed a whirlwind of activity as students from kindergarten through eighth grade flowed in and out, creating a chaotic scene that resembled a tornado—eating, spilling, shouting, and generally wreaking havoc in a compact 200-square-foot space. At my children’s small private school, there isn’t much funding available to support the few part-time staff members who manage the daily lunch rush. Consequently, parent volunteers are essential. To those parents who aren’t able to contribute due to work commitments, consider yourselves fortunate!
As a parent who occasionally feels guilty lounging at home in pajamas while the school calls out for cafeteria help, I can’t bring myself to decline. I often wonder if avoiding volunteering would earn me a one-way ticket to the underworld, so I dutifully show up. I’ve donned the apron about four times this year, and I must admit, I’m starting to feel quite at home in it.
Fortunately, the only silly item I have to wear is an apron filled with napkins and straws—no hair nets or gloves required. Opting for yoga pants and comfortable shoes is advisable, especially since you never know when you might step on a stray grape or jelly.
As a volunteer, you find yourself either behind the food counter, serving meals, or out on the cafeteria floor assisting the kids. Being on the cafeteria floor feels like navigating a jungle where you’re bombarded by the demands of multiple exuberant, ketchup-smeared six-year-olds who need to use the restroom, require a napkin, or have spilled their yogurt.
I envy those parents who have never set foot in the cafeteria—the ones who believe their children are neatly consuming their meals and tidying up afterwards. Oh, how mistaken they are! While your child might be the exception, I assure you that, more often than not, they fall into the same patterns as the rest. Here are five crucial lessons I’ve learned about kids while volunteering:
- Fruit is Abandoned
It’s a rare occurrence for kids to eat fruit. Perhaps one child out of twenty might indulge in strawberries or apples, but the rest end up in the trash. And let’s be honest, raisins? Not happening. - Treats Are King
Many kids are surviving solely on the empty calories from snacks like Doritos and ice cream purchased at the end of the lunch line. This explains why they often come home ravenous, having left their nutritious meals untouched. - Waste is Unbelievable
The amount of food wasted is staggering. Although the school has introduced a “share table” for unopened items, it rarely sees any action. I once witnessed a student toss uneaten oranges into the trash. When I suggested he inform his mother, he gave me a bewildered look. I could easily construct a small house from the discarded string cheeses and half-eaten fruit cups I’ve seen in the trash. - Food Ends Up Everywhere
If a child’s meal isn’t in the trash, it’s likely scattered across the floor. There’s a veritable carpet of pretzels, crackers, and other unidentifiable remnants. Parents, if you send Jell-O or pudding, please include an apology note for the poor volunteers who deal with the aftermath! - Noise Levels Are Insane
I once thought the lunch staff wearing whistles were overreacting, but it’s the only way to manage the cacophony of excited children. Your child likely spends most of lunch chatting rather than eating.
Some might argue that kids are spoiled, wasting food or being messy. However, many of these students come from families that rely on financial assistance for lunch. It’s essential to teach children about the value of food and proper manners during meals. Engaging them in conversations about their lunch experience can foster appreciation and responsibility.
Ultimately, even if it means coming home with sticky shoes and a scent of fries and fruit, volunteering feels rewarding. The school desperately needs support, and it’s nice to contribute while also cherishing those adorable moments with my child, even if they come covered in ketchup.
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In summary, volunteering in the school cafeteria has provided me with a unique perspective on children’s eating habits, emphasizing the importance of communication and education about food choices.