Engaging Youth as Advocates to Create Healthy Snacking Zones Around Rural Schools – Year 3

Abstract

ObjectiveEvaluate an intervention that engages 4-H youth participants in advocacy for “healthy snacking zones” within 5 elementary/middle schools and nearby food stores in a rural Oregon county.DescriptionIn Year 3, youth assessed food-related practices pertaining to classroom parties, fundraisers, student rewards, and concession stands in their schools; drafted a policy for healthier alternatives; and presented the policy to their school boards.EvaluationMixed methods were used to evaluate intervention implementation, environmental change, and changes in children’s snacking behaviors and BMI.Conclusions and ImplicationsPreliminary results suggest that youth advocacy is having a positive effect on school food environments and the youth themselves.FundingUSDA Grant #2012-68001-19702. ObjectiveEvaluate an intervention that engages 4-H youth participants in advocacy for “healthy snacking zones” within 5 elementary/middle schools and nearby food stores in a rural Oregon county. Evaluate an intervention that engages 4-H youth participants in advocacy for “healthy snacking zones” within 5 elementary/middle schools and nearby food stores in a rural Oregon county. DescriptionIn Year 3, youth assessed food-related practices pertaining to classroom parties, fundraisers, student rewards, and concession stands in their schools; drafted a policy for healthier alternatives; and presented the policy to their school boards. In Year 3, youth assessed food-related practices pertaining to classroom parties, fundraisers, student rewards, and concession stands in their schools; drafted a policy for healthier alternatives; and presented the policy to their school boards. EvaluationMixed methods were used to evaluate intervention implementation, environmental change, and changes in children’s snacking behaviors and BMI. Mixed methods were used to evaluate intervention implementation, environmental change, and changes in children’s snacking behaviors and BMI. Conclusions and ImplicationsPreliminary results suggest that youth advocacy is having a positive effect on school food environments and the youth themselves. Preliminary results suggest that youth advocacy is having a positive effect on school food environments and the youth themselves.