Researcher(s)
- Gabby Jakobsberg, Nutritional Science, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Alyssa Whittaker, Cooperative Extension Health and Wellness, University of Delaware
Abstract
The University of Delaware Cooperative Extension as part of the health and wellbeing outreach partners with 4-H Healthy Habits, Delaware EFNEP, and SNAP-Ed to engage youth communities among the New Castle area in health and wellness education. In the summer of 2023, this program aimed to teach children about healthy nutrition habits while touching on the importance of physical activity and mindfulness. Approximately five lessons were taught to each participating camp. Children ages five to seven were taught the Learn, Grow, Eat, Go lesson plan, and children ages eight to twelve followed the Choose Health, Food, Fun, and Fitness curriculum. These lessons focused heavily on learning how to read nutrition labels, understanding the concerns of consuming excess fats and added sugars, and the importance of regularly adding fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to the diet. Pre and/or post surveys were distributed to students at the camps, and were used as a comparison tool to evaluate the effectiveness of this program. Many questions revolved around implementing healthier nutritional habits, such as planning to drink the recommended daily amount of water or planning to prepare healthy snacks with friends and family. 148 children have currently been reached. An analysis of trends in survey responses will commence once lessons have finished for the summer.