LEAP for Health

Poor nutrition and physical inactivity are tied to obesity. Recent research shows that among U.S. children, ages 2 to 4, nearly 14% were overweight and 13.5% were obese. Obesity rates for children ages 6 to 11 was even higher at 17.5%. Obesity has been shown to contribute to major health issues including high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, elevated blood cholesterol levels, low self-esteem, negative body image and depression in children. The spread of disease among children is also a health issue. Studies have shown that proper hand washing and following the rules of food safety can significantly prevent the spread of diseases. However, only half of middle school and high school students said that they wash their hands, with only 33% of girls and 8% of boys using soap as they washed.

To address these concerns, the Nutrition Education Program updated the Literacy, Eating, and Activity for Preschool/Primary (LEAP) for Health curriculum. The revision includes an updated overview guide, new marketing materials, 10 new books with accompanying facilitation guides and parent newsletters, revision to all existing facilitation guides and parent newsletters, and retirement of 10 outdated books. The revision includes better clarification of books/lessons for specific age groups and more age appropriate activities and materials. Emphasis was placed on showing children of diverse backgrounds, abilities and multiculturalism.

New materials were provided to 110 Nutrition Education Program assistants and 120 County Extension Offices. In addition, training was provided to over 200 NEP Assistants, County FCS Extension Agents and Extension Homemaker volunteers. As a result of these efforts, the curriculum is being implemented acorss the state of Kentucky. Lessons focus on teaching children about nutritious foods, healthy eating habits, hand washing, food safety and being physically active. A pre-test/post-test evaluation is being used to determine outcomes. The results of the county programs will be reported in Agent and NEP Assistant success stories and WebNEERS evaluation system.