Schools, parents, teachers, communities ... we're all working together to make the school day healthy for learners of all ages. But what does that mean: a healthy school day? And what challenges do we face in achieving it? 

Let's hash out a group definition for "healthy school day", and a working list of challenges we face, from personal (ex: it's difficult to pack a healthy lunch) to structural (ex: our school still hosts junky fundraisers!).

All answers are welcome! Having a tough time with creative lunch ideas, or finding ways for your to kids burn off some energy after a long day? Share in the comments below! We'll compile responses and resources through this post and the Good Food Force group. Together, we're an amazing source of ideas and knowledge. We're excited for your thoughts! Thank you!!

Responses from Good Food Force Members:

• We asked participants in the Good Food Force Back to School Challenge how they define a healthy school day. Check out some responses, below!  
• I start with a brainy breakfast for my son and a few ounces of water. He also takes his fish oil in the morning. I pack him a lunch every day along with a healthy snack. I enjoy the containers we use for his lunch because they have separate compartments which allow me to get creative! Plus, it also ensures that I'm giving him a good portion. - Jessica
• A healthy day is when I learn that one of my kids made a good decision about their own food choices - whether choosing to buy or pack that day or picking a healthy snack from the lunchroom even when some really tempting, but poorer, choices were available. - Amy
• A healthy school day starts out with a brainy breakfast - fiber and protein are our friends and supplements of fish oil, fruits and veggies gummies as well as vitamin D3. Then I pack my son a healthy, nutrient dense lunch with more fruits, veggies, and grains as well as water for hydration! - Jessica   
• Healthy days for us are fresh fruits and veggies and positive thoughts and to help others. - Rom  
• A healthy day for us is when when my kids do the best they can. They enjoy when I pack them veggies with dip or fruit. They will ask for this above anything else. - Karen  
• We always pack raw veggies cut into fun shapes and yummy fruits too. 
• A healthy day always start with a healthy breakfast and lunch. Success with homework. - Karin 
• Healthy and green are great for us all. - Mitchell
• A healthy school day is about balance! I have three special needs kids, so it's important to keep things calm and predictable. Structure is key to our household, with lots of fun thrown in! I have also found that keeping my kids well hydrated is really important. When they are dehydrated, they are irritable. I have been making cucumber and mint infused water and keeping a huge glass container in the fridge. They love it! - Adriana
• A healthy school day to me is getting a good night's sleep, having a hot breakfast and healthy lunch, getting exercise and laughing and playing with your friends! - Kathy 
• Eating healthy is a normal routine in our home. My six year old is a fan of fruits and veggies (cooked) and will try any food. - Jessica

Please keep sharing your thoughts in the comments below!