P100: Using Nutrition Education to Increase Healthy Habits of Limited Resource Children and their Caregivers

Abstract

One out of three children and adolescents aged 6 to 19 is overweight or at risk of becoming overweight. This trend causes great concern for the health of the children both now and when they become adults. This study assessed the food choices of limited resource children ages 6-13 and their caregivers before and after a ten week nutrition education intervention. The program was evaluated using pre/post surveys. Data was collected from the caregivers of the children. The program encompasses the food guide pyramid, physical activity, food safety and cultural foods. It was taught through a community center summer enrichment program and an after school program. A one-hour lesson consisting of nutrition education, physical activity and a healthy snack was provided each week. In addition, to educate the caregiver, a letter went home with the children highlighting the day's events and educational points. Forty-five children from limited resource families attending summer or after school programs participated. Positive outcomes were seen for participants and their families. 25% of the children and 18% of the families reported decreasing their daily consumption of French fries and chips. 25% of the families are considering increasing their intakes of fruits and vegetables each day while 29% of the children actually increased their daily consumption of vegetables. 17% more of the children eat breakfast after completion of this program. These results suggest that a small amount of nutrition education can make an impact on children and their caregivers. This project was funded in part by USDA/FNS.