According to the Center for Disease Control, 36.3 percent of children in LaRue County Kentucky eat fast food daily  which contributes to an obesity rate of 44 percent.

LaRue County Extension Service Expanded Food and Nutrition Program (EFNEP) Assistant conducted a series of seven classes with eleven LaRue County High School Functionally Mentally Disabled Students. The goal with them was improving their overall knowledge of nutrition, increasing physical activity and importance of hygiene and handwashing . 

Participants in this group have developmental or physical limitations.

Classes on  my plate, fruits and vegetables, hand washing, basic cooking skills, portion control, beverage choices and physical activity were taught to encourage a healthier lifestyle.

 One parent noted that her daughter has stopped asking for fast food as frequently and  has asked her to buy ingredients for quesadillas that we made in class.

By sharing information regarding healthy diets, physical activity and hygiene, students have improved their  diets by reducing fast food and sweetened drinks, increased their physical activity and are more aware of the necessity of handwashing to stay heathy.