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Families Practice A More "Colorful" and Healthy Lifestyle
| Name | Deon S. Legette | | Situation | Statistics show that one in five children are either overweight or obese, and this number continues to rise. The primary causes of this trend are unhealthy eating habits and physical inactivity. The Color Me Healthy curriculum addresses both of these issues by providing teachers, parents and children with fun, interactive lessons which focus on the importance of healthy eating and physical activity. The curriculum is unique as it
engages adults who have the greatest influence on the health and lifestyles of young children. | | Response | As a regional trainer for the curriculum, I provided instruction for the teachers in a local preschool. Fourteen lessons about healthy eating and participating in physical activity were presented. The leaders incorporated these lessons into their daily curriculum, where 30 preschoolers were encouraged to "eat their colors" and follow the rainbow to 5-A-Day (fruits and vegetables). A variety of healthy snacks such as spinach salad, fruit salad and fruit smoothies were enjoyed by all. The children were also able to go on six imaginary trips. These trips allowed
them to use physical activity and movement as they took trips to different places.
Parental involvement was a very big part of the sessions. A monthly newsletter about eating healthy, with recipes, was sent home with each child. Three parent group sessions were held to reinforce the lessons on healthy eating. | | Impact | Over 85% of the parents indicated that they have a better understanding of the importance of eating healthy, providing variety and color in their family diets, and the benefits of daily physical activity. They also indicated that they plan to put their knowledge to use by choosing more fruits and vegetables. |
Last update8/27/2008
This website is maintained by Betsy Farmer.
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