Researcher(s)
- Madison Davidson, Nutritional Science, University of Delaware
- Elena Sisofo, Nutritional Science, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Michelle Voegele, , University of Delaware
Abstract
This summer, as student scholars, we served as nutrition educators through the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP). We delivered interactive nutrition education to children in grades K-8 at summer camps throughout Delaware. Our goal was to promote healthy eating habits and encourage lifelong wellness by presenting engaging lessons that emphasized practical nutrition knowledge and healthy lifestyle choices.
Throughout the summer, we visited eight camps located in Wilmington, Middletown, Newark, and Hockessin. At each site, we facilitated hands-on activities and discussions covering a variety of nutrition topics designed to help children make informed food choices. Lesson topics included choosing healthy beverages, increasing vegetable intake, understanding the Nutrition Facts label, identifying whole and refined grains, and selecting healthier, lower-fat meal options at fast-food restaurants. We encouraged participation through games, demonstrations, and group discussions to make learning enjoyable and memorable.
By adapting our teaching methods to different camp environments and group sizes, we created an engaging educational experience that allowed for curiosity and confidence in making healthier decisions. This experience strengthened our communication, teaching, and leadership skills while allowing us to positively impact children in communities across the state. Through EFNEP, we gained valuable experience in community nutrition education and witnessed firsthand the importance of providing accessible, evidence-based nutrition information to young audiences. Our summer outreach reinforced the value of nutrition education in helping children build healthy habits early on to build a foundation that can last a lifetime.