Kentucky has one of the highest rates of childhood obesity.   Children are not eating enough fruits and vegetables (National Library of Medicine, 2023). The risk factors of poor nutrition and physical inactivity associated with cardiovascular disease begin early in life (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2004).  Therefore, educational programs which address the importance of healthy nutrition and increased physical activity are needed.   The Campbell County Extension Service addressed these issues through the following program- Leap.

The Campbell County Cooperative Extension Service collaborated with Campbell Ridge Preschool, on an 8-session curriculum called Leap (Literacy, Eating, and Activity for Preschoolers) for Health to 35 children.   Storybooks were used to teach children the importance of staying healthy, being physically active, and eating more fruits and vegetables.  Each session included reading the story, tasting foods introduced in the story, and a reinforcement activity such as discussing how to brush one’s teeth.  At the end of the 8th session, the following statistics were found:

1. 100% said they should brush their teeth at least two times per day.
2. 100% said exercising was important.
3. 100% said they should wash their hands after using the restroom.
4. 96% said that strawberry was a fruit.
5. 85% said that spinach was a vegetable.