Childhood obesity rates are on the rise, and in Kentucky alone it has been reported that “approximately 38% of children ages 10-17 years are considered overweight or obese (www.chfs.ky.gov).”  Studies show that “Kentucky children are more likely to spend 2 or more hours of screen time each day (kentucky.gov),” which contributes to their inactivity and their overweight issues. “Compared to children with healthy weight, children with overweight or obesity issues are at a higher risk for asthma, sleep apnea, bone and joint problems, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. (https://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpao/features/childhood-obesity/index.html).”   From these few statistics (there are many more), it has become even more important for children to learn at an early age how to achieve and maintain healthy eating habits, which will, in turn, support a healthier weight and their overall health as they become adults. 

During the 2022-2023 school year, the Nutrition Education Senior Assistant in Grayson County, Kentucky, taught a series of classes in three 5^th grade classrooms at the H.W. Wilkey Elementary School.  The Professor Popcorn Curriculum was utilized to teach the students about healthier eating practices and the importance of physical activity. There was a total of sixty-five students that took part in the 5 weeks, 6 lesson series.  Pre and post tests were given to the students to ascertain the data that was needed to provide insight into their eating habits and improvements once the series was completed. 

The posttests revealed that 69% of students improved in eating more vegetables as a snack; 53% improved in eating fruit as a snack; and 48% improved in tasting new foods.  And in the physical activity portion, the tests indicated that there was a 47% increase in the number of students frequency to participate in physical activity; a 52% increase in the amount of time they were physically active, and a 52% improvement in less screen time.  

From these overall positive improvements, it is undeniable that the Nutrition Education Program has greatly influenced the understanding these students have to make healthier choices.  These classes are on a continuous rotation during every school year, so that more and more children might be reached.