On World School Milk Day, the Dairy Council for Northern Ireland is reminding parents to take advantage of the School Milk Scheme.
Many schools provide breaktime milk through the scheme which means milk is offered for as little as 13p a day.
Dr Mike Johnston, Chief Executive of the Dairy Council for Northern Ireland said:
“Breaktime milk is fantastic value for money during this challenging economic climate and the nutrients it contains can play an important role in a child’s health and development. Making milk part of a healthy routine gives them a great start to the new school year.
A carton of school milk contains around half of a five year old’s daily calcium needs, essential for healthy bones and strong teeth. And as well as helping to keep children hydrated, school milk is a source of protein, vitamin B12 and vitamin B2. I would encourage parents to sign up to this scheme by asking their school how their child can receive milk at breaktime.”
The Dairy Council offers families further advice on how to make healthy lifestyle choices through its special ‘Milk and more’ booklet. The publication provides information on the benefits of choosing school milk as well as advice and tips on eating well throughout the school day.
For more on school milk click here
Pictured: Six–year–old Johnie Thompson from Dromore Central Primary School.