An estimated 12 000 vulnerable preschool children could start Grade 1 in 2026 without adequate nutrition. This is because food insecurity continues to affect school readiness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Food security organisation Ladles of Love says chronic malnutrition among preschoolers undermines cognitive development, physical growth and concentration. This puts learners at a disadvantage before formal schooling begins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to UNICEF, over 1.5 million South African children under five are stunted due to chronic undernutrition. As a result, learning outcomes and future employment prospects are affected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Through its Nourish Our Children Programme, Ladles of Love currently provides two daily meals to 9 000 preschoolers and teachers in the Western Cape, Northern Cape and Gauteng. However, funding for most beneficiaries is not guaranteed, and 3 000 children remain on waiting lists for 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cSchool readiness is not about uniforms or stationery,\u201d says Yolanda Jones, Programme Director at Ladles of Love. \u201cIt is about whether a child\u2019s brain and body have been properly nourished to support focus, memory and healthy growth.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At Hope of Africa Preschool in Delft, principal Monica November says consistent nutrition has improved health, attendance and confidence. This helps learners catch up academically before Grade 1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Western Cape Education Department said the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) now reaches 1 057 schools, providing daily meals to learners. Beneficiary numbers grew from 489 226 in 2020 to 539 761 in 2024. This marks an increase of 50 535 learners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Despite this, early childhood nutrition remains limited. Nearly 40% of children under six live below the food poverty line, with 23% in severe child food poverty, UNICEF reports. Experts stress that the first 1 000 days of life are critical for brain development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ladles of Love has launched a Christmas fundraising campaign. They are urging individuals and businesses to donate R300 per month. This amount provides two nutritious meals daily for one child throughout 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe school year begins in just weeks,\u201d Jones said. \u201cFor children to be ready for learning, nutrition needs to happen now and consistently.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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