Dear Editor,

In response to the article published in the Sunday Observer on November 10, 2019, entitled ‘Schools adjusting to life with less sugar’, which states that, despite restrictions imposed by school administrators in compliance with stipulations from the Ministry of Health, students continue to have access to sugary drinks from vendors at school gates, I am in total agreement.

I believe, however, that the onus is on adults and parents to influence our children to make healthy decisions. They do, after all, live what they learn.

As a preschool teacher and a mom I make it my personal duty to stress the importance of lowering sugar consumption. For the most part, the kids have been receptive, sometimes racing each other to drink more water daily. We can influence the change; we must make decisions to guarantee our children the best possible lives.

With the reduction of sugar in their diets I have noticed and appreciate certain behavioural changes. Kids are a lot less hyperactive and more focused, making teaching and learning much more pleasurable experiences.

Certain drink manufacturers, in compliance with the regulations, have reduced their sugar content as well. I think this is proactive and responsible. I’ve noticed reduced-sugar Kool Kidz on the market; I’ve sampled it and I think it tastes great, reduced sugar and all. So let’s not make this movement look like a sacrifice of good taste.

As adults, we owe our children a shot at life without the strain of certain non-communicable diseases like diabetes and obesity.

Let’s show them that healthy options can be just as fun. “Train up a child in the way he should go…”

Sasha-Gaye Chambers

csashagaye@gmail.com