LEAPing in First Grade

After an extended break of in person youth programs, the Muhlenberg County SNAP-Ed assistant was allowed to return to Muhlenberg  County Elementary Schools to present the LEAP program to all First Grade students.  What is LEAP? LEAP for Health is a series of lessons that use storybooks and activities to teach children about nutritious foods, healthy eating habits, hand washing, food safety, and being physically active.

 University of Kentucky data shows that youth eat fewer fruits and vegetables than the daily recommended amounts.  Poor nutrition and less physical activity have been linked to the rise in youth obesity.  The prevalence of obesity in children ages 6-11 was 17.5%.  The LEAP for Health program strives to help families make improvements in nutrition, physical activity, health, and literacy.

LEAP was presented to all first grade students at Bremen Elementary, Central City Elementary, Longest Elementary, and  Muhlenberg South Elementary.  218 students completed the pre and post evaluations. Through a series of six lessons of reading books, engaging in physical activity, healthy choices, and nutritious snacks 82% of the children showed improvement in one or more areas of knowledge to choose healthy foods consistent with the Federal Dietary Guidelines.  Of the students who completed both the pre and post test 53% of students showed improvement in distinguishing when to wash their hands, improving their food safety skills.

In the end, students learned that through making healthy choices, trying new foods, exploring new flavors and textures they were setting themselves up for a healthy future. The LEAP program connects children to events in their daily lives and motivates them to adopt positive behaviors to last a lifetime.