In 1896, pioneering doctor and pharmacist Sagen Ishizuka coined a Japanese philosophy called “shokuiku.” It is derived from two words that mean “eat” and “grow.”
Shokuiku encourages parents and schools to teach kids where their food comes from and how it affects our mind and body. This concept has been an integral part of Japan’s culture, and it’s a big reason why we’re home to some of the world’s healthiest children.
According to UNICEF, among 41 developed countries in the European Union and the OECD, Japan is the only country where fewer than one in five children are overweight.
As a mother raising a young daughter in Japan, here’s what Japanese parents do differently to raise happy and adventurous eaters:
1. They implement shokuiku early.
Japanese doctors often encourage expecting mothers to stick to a well-balanced meal style called “ichijū-sansai.” It is centered around a bowl of rice and miso soup, accompanied by a protein-focused dish, and two vegetable sides (like seaweed or mushroom) for adequate vitamins, minerals and fiber.
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As kids get older, they start to learn about healthy eating habits. In 2005, the government passed the Basic Act on Shokuiku to promote shokuiku.
Some preschools have kids harvest vegetables to eat for lunch, while in elementary schools, they learn about the farms that produce vegetables, fish and other foods.
2. They encourage bento box conversations.
Over 95% of Japanese elementary and junior high schools have a school lunch system. Meals are planned by nutritionists, and students take an active part in the lunch serving process.
While many preschools also provide lunches, homemade bento lunches can play an important role in promoting shokuiku.
My daughter’s kindergarten teacher asks her students to talk about what’s in each other’s bento boxes. It makes lunchtime enjoyable, and children feel encouraged to try new foods — or even…
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