Success StoryGrowing Healthy with Jack: Discovering Nutrition with the Hungry Giant
Growing Healthy with Jack: Discovering Nutrition with the Hungry Giant
Author: Lakesha Reams
Planning Unit: Jefferson County CES
Major Program: Nutrition and Food Systems General
Outcome: Intermediate Outcome
The Jefferson County Nutrition Education Program joined forces with Jefferson County Public Schools to launch a weekly in-person nutrition education series using the LEAP (Literacy, Eating, and Activity for Preschool/Primary) curriculum. This engaging program consists of 6 one-hour lessons that combine storybooks and interactive activities to teach children about nutritious foods, healthy eating habits, handwashing, food safety, and the importance of staying active.
?
The standout moment in the series was the reading of Jack & the Hungry Giant Eat Right with MyPlate. Students participated in a variety of hands-on activities, including a creative exercise where they colored a 5-food group plate worksheet, selecting 1-2 foods from each category.
?
At the conclusion of the program, ninety 2nd graders had successfully participated in the series. An exit survey highlighted the program’s positive impact:
91% of children reported increased physical activity
80% are opting for healthier snacks
72% are incorporating more vegetables into their meals
53% are consuming more dairy
68% are enjoying more fruits
One student enthusiastically remarked, "Since I brought MyPlate home, my family and I use it to plan our dinners, making sure to include all 5 food groups every day. “We’re eating healthier and feeling stronger!"
Stories by Lakesha Reams
Growing Healthy with Jack: Discovering Nutrition with the Hungry Giant
The Jefferson County Nutrition Education Program joined forces with Jefferson County Public Schools ... Read More
Stories by Jefferson County CES
Food Connection: Addressing the People
Describe the Issue or Situation. - A panel spoke to attendees about the work extension does with loc... Read More
Young Scientists and Chefs
Science in the Kitchen is a unique program that allows students to connect their everyday lives to t... Read More
Stories by Nutrition and Food Systems General

Sourdough Bread Workshop and Gut Health
Recent research shows that gut health plays a vital role in overall well-being, impacting not only d... Read More
Tasty Tuesdays at S.S.S.
Tasty Tuesdays at S.S.S.Background:Childhood obesity is a growing epidemic in the United States, aff... Read More
© 2024 University of Kentucky, Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment