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.
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.
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.
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.
“School readiness is not about uniforms or stationery,” says Yolanda Jones, Programme Director at Ladles of Love. “It is about whether a child’s brain and body have been properly nourished to support focus, memory and healthy growth.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
“The school year begins in just weeks,” Jones said. “For children to be ready for learning, nutrition needs to happen now and consistently.”
