Am I thirsty or am I hungry?

It is Food Adventure Day in our class, and the taste table looks bright and fun.

I see cucumber coins, carrot sticks, crackers, yogurt, mango, and a tiny bowl of chickpeas. My tummy makes a small growl, but my mouth feels dry too.

I stop and ask myself, am I hungry or just thirsty? I choose water first and take slow sips. My mouth feels better. My tummy still asks for food, so I wash my hands and read the allergy signs.

Ms. Lee reminds us that Noor has a peanut allergy, so we keep foods safe for her.

I build my plate using our class rule. Half veggies, 1/2 of my plate. I add cucumbers and carrots for crunch. One quarter grains, 1/4 of my plate.

I choose a small cracker. One quarter protein, 1/4 of my plate.

I take a spoon of yogurt and a few chickpeas. I try the chickpea. Lemon and garlic. New, but nice.

Mateo feels grumpy. He drinks water first and smiles.

Yuna is not sure if she wants a snack. She waits and listens to her tummy.

After a few bites, my body feels steady and my head feels clear.

I write in my planner, water first when dry, 1/2 veggies, 1/4 grains, 1/4 protein.

Self-check:

• I noticed a body signal today

• I tried water first if I felt thirsty

• I built a plate with 1/2 veggies, 1/4 grains, 1/4 protein