During the summer of 2022 the Paris-Bourbon County YMCA found themselves with 27 middle school students.  To teach them some life skills a partnership was form with the summer program and the Bourbon County Extension Office Nutrition Education Program Assistant.  A 6-week series using the Teen Cuisine curriculum was used.  Over the six weeks students learned knife skills and safety, how to measure, how to read a recipe, and food safety.  They also learned about MyPlate and the food groups, how to incorporate for fruits and vegetables into their diet, along with whole grains, low-fat dairy and the importance of physical activity.  The participants used their gained knowledge to prepare different foods.  Fruit and Yogurt Dip, Chinese Vegetable Stir-Fry, Oven-Baked Chicken Nuggets and Easy Stroganoff were among the recipes they prepared and tasted.  

At the end of the 6 weeks a post-test was given in order to see the impact the program had on the participants.  Vegetable consumption increased by 70% and 81% increased the amount of whole grain foods they were eating.  There was also a 74% increase in the frequency of hand washing before eating.  Cooking skills increased as well, with 76% gaining more confidence in using measuring cups and spoons and following directions in a recipe.  One student remarked “I didn’t know I could make chicken nuggets and home!”  Another commented “I can fix my own food at home now!”