School cafeterias are more than just places to eat. They are social hubs where students unite to re- fuel, relax, and connect. As such, a well-crafted ambiance can promote relaxation and foster pos- itive social interactions – all of which contribute to more enjoyable mealtimes and enhance stu- dents’ sense of belonging and community.
EVALUATING
Prioritizing program satisfaction can substantially impact program participation. To gauge satisfac- tion levels and identify areas for improvement, consider conducting surveys, gathering feedback from students and staff, and observing behaviors in the cafeteria. Evaluating success based on nu- tritional content, ambiance, and overall satisfac- tion is crucial to ensuring students’ needs are met and the program attracts new customers. Check out ICN’s Focus on the Customer online resource for additional strategies and best prac- tices for enhancing customer satisfaction and en- gagement within your program. PROGRAM SATISFACTION
FUNCTIONALITY
ENHANCING WITH
STYLE
The quality and presentation of a nutritious meal serve as primary incentives for students visiting the dining room. Therefore, it is essential to con- sider how the design contributes to the overall mealtime experience. Incorporating colors and themes that reflect the school’s identity and spir - it can add vibrancy to the space. From colorful murals and posters to interactive displays and on-screen marketing, every detail contributes to a well-designed room that excites students. Ad- ditionally, cafeteria transformations can offer a sense of belonging among the school community, serving as a versatile venue for school events, ac- tivities, and celebrations. For good measure, aim for a style and layout that not only elevates the aesthetic appeal but also optimizes functionality. Consider a design that enhances students’ ability to move around the cafeteria quickly and offers practical ways to im - prove lunch lines. Here are things to consider: • How efficient are your traffic flow patterns to minimize congestion during peak hours? • Is walking from the entrance to the serving lines convenient and efficient? • Are seating areas placed out of the way of foot traffic? • Are interactive stations (i.e., hydration sta- tions and waste bins) placed by the entrance or exit? • A balance between aesthetics and practicality enhances the enjoyment of meals and conve- nience for students and ensures a smooth op- eration among staff.
In school nutrition programs, getting the atmo- sphere right is crucial . When students feel com- fortable and welcomed in the cafeteria, they are more likely to engage with their surroundings and make healthier food choices. A well-designed environment fosters a positive atmosphere, sparking curiosity and encouragement among students to try new foods and healthy eating hab- its and ultimately promoting students’ well-being. So, ask yourself: does your dining experience pass the vibe check?
SOURCES Focus on the Customer for School Nutrition Managers - Institute of Child Nutrition School Dining Hall Design Trends | Ideas | HMC Architects Improving the Dining Experience in Schools Why You Should Transform Your School Cafeteria - Multiteria Maximizing Customer Service through Restaurant Ambience: Effective Strategies (explorex.co)
L. Janae Le, MS, CHES | Institute of Child Nutrition Janae Le is a Certified Health Education Specialist and currently serves as an Education and Training Specialist at the Institute of Child Nutrition where she specializes in developing educational resources for school nutrition professionals. Janae holds a BS in Exercise Science from Mississippi State University and a MS in Health Promotion from the University of Mississippi. Prior to coming to ICN, she was a project manager for the McLean Institute for Public Service and Community Engagement at the University of Mississippi where she served as an outreach liaison for matching the University’s diverse and comprehensive resources with community goals and needs throughout Mississippi. ICN Website
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