According to 2024 County Health Rankings, Clinton County is ranked among the least healthy counties in Kentucky particularly in terms of health factors which represent those things we can modify to improve the length and quality of life for residents. To continue the promotion of healthy lifestyle behaviors, Clinton County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent and Nutrition Education Assistant collaborated with nine administrators and teachers with the Clinton County School District to offer the Recipes for Life program to 115 fifth grade students. Eight volunteers worked with students in a hands-on educational setting to teach important life skills. A pre-test/post-test evaluation was conducted to determine learning outcomes. As a result of the program, all students reported increased knowledge in handwashing, food safety (particularly related to the proper use of meat thermometers), and kitchen safety. Students planned to make the following changes as a result of attending the Recipes for Life program: 77% of students plan to eat more fruits and vegetables, 91% of students reported that they plan to try new foods, and 92% plan to help prepare food at home. Additionally, 82% of students feel confident making their own meal. 

One teacher shared “Our kids desperately need life skills programs like this. It was a good measure of math concepts too.” Students and parents were equally as pleased with the program. One parent noted that her son shared the recipe book with their family at dinner and had everyone pick a dish to make that week. “We’ve all enjoyed the swag bag of kitchen supplies and spending more time together in the kitchen.”

Cooking with youth is a great way to help them build confidence and lay the foundation for healthier eating habits as they age. Programs such as Recipes for Life are an integral part of Extension’s commitment to improving the quality of life for individuals, families, and communities.