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Inspiring youth in Queen Anne's County to live healthy lifestyles through nutrition and physical activity.
Childhood obesity puts children and adolescents at risk for poor health, and children living in poverty have a three to four times higher odds of obesity than children from higher-socioeconomic households.
To address these issues, Maryland's SNAP-Ed program within University of Maryland Extension creates healthier environments and improves the health and wellbeing of limited income families across Maryland. SNAP-Ed programs encourage a nutritious and active lifestyle through increased food access, drinking more water, and promoting physical activity. SNAP-Ed provides comprehensive programs that consist of nutrition education lessons, social marketing programs and policy, system and environmental-level changes at partnering sites.
As a teacher, I try to lead by example so I try the foods the students have for 'Edible ABC's' too. I have found some new things I like this year that I would have never tried otherwise.
Mrs. Vacek, Pre-k teacher, Sudlersville Elementary School
The Approach
UM Cooperative Extension staff encouraged healthy habits and physical activity through education in school classrooms. The audience included Pre-K, Kindergarten and 2nd grade students from Title 1 schools, Sudlersville Elementary School and Church Hill Judy Center. Monthly education focused on physical activity, healthy meals, snacks and hydration. Tasting events were paired stories from “Read for Health” books to prompt dialogue amongst the students. To engage parents and reinforce healthy behaviors and physical activity, newsletters offered tips and action items to use at home.
The Results
193 Pre-K to 2nd grade students were reached. All education, activities and resources supported, encouraged and reinforced positive behavior change. These efforts inspired students and families to adopt healthy habits and a fun, active lifestyle. Before Maryland SNAP-Ed, 27% of Pre-K kids were active for at least one hour daily, compared to 58% after the program.
To learn more, contact Tina Squibb Tsquibb@umd.edu 410-905-5941 https://extension.umd.edu/programs/family-consumer-sciences/snap-ed/find-snap-ed-educator
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