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What’s on your child’s school lunch tray? In this episode, we dig into the fascinating (and sometimes frustrating) differences in school lunches across cultures. From French multi-course meals to American cafeteria nacho bars, we explore what kids are eating at school and how food policies shape their choices. We also share our own experiences—from childhood lunch memories to feeding our multicultural teens today.

Topics Discussed:

• How school lunches differ in France, Germany, and the U.S.
• The impact of school food policies on nutrition and student choices.
• The role of parental involvement in shaping kids’ eating habits.
• Personal experiences with school meals—then vs. now.
• The cultural significance of food in education systems.

Vocabulary Shared in This Episode:

• Cantine (French) – The school cafeteria, where students are served a multi-course meal.
• Mittagessen (German) – Midday meal, traditionally eaten at home, but now served at school as schedules shift.
• National School Lunch Program (U.S.) – A program funded by US taxpayers and operated by the US Dept of Agriculture. It provides meals at a discount or no cost for qualifying families.
• Poisson Pané (French) – Literally "breaded fish," but also part of a classic joke about a fish that can’t smell (you’ll hear it in the episode!).
• Chandeleur (French) – The French holiday we talked about in Episode 4. It means crêpes for everyone—because food traditions extend beyond school lunches! This is the recipe (in French) Marisa uses to make hers.

Your turn!
What were your favorite (or least favorite) school lunches growing up? 
How does your child’s school handle meals? 

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We want to hear from you! Share your personal stories of parenting across cultures or suggest topics for future episodes!

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Connect with Us:

• Instagram: @cultureclashparenting
• Email: [email protected]

Culture Clash Parenting is lovingly produced by Astrid and Marisa, fueled by laughter, late-night texts, and a shared passion for embracing the chaos that comes with raising multicultural children. We believe in the power of storytelling to create a more peaceful, patient, and equitable world.

Music and editing by Lonely Heaven Music