According to kentuckyhealthfacts.org, only 10% of Kentuckians consume the recommended daily amounts of fruits and vegetables—and in Bourbon County, that number drops to just 5%. Developing nutrition-conscious habits early in life is essential to improving these statistics.

To promote healthy eating from a young age, the Bourbon County Extension Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Agent and the Senior SNAP Assistant brought an engaging and educational message to every kindergarten classroom in the county. A total of 273 kindergarten students across 14 classrooms were treated to a special story and skit featuring the beloved tale of Peter Rabbit.

In the skit, Peter Rabbit and Mr. McGregor come to life to share their perspectives on vegetables and nutrition. Mr. McGregor expresses frustration over his garden being raided, while Peter Rabbit explains that he needs the vegetables’ nutrients to help him jump higher and run faster. Throughout the performance, Mr. McGregor discusses the nutritional benefits of various vegetables, helping students understand how those nutrients help our bodies grow strong and stay healthy.

Results:

•    99% of students took “hello bites” of each of the six vegetables in their tasting packets

•    68% of students indicated that they tried a vegetable that they had not eaten before

•    78% of students indicated that they liked and would eat vegetables again

•    100% of students identified one benefit to eating vegetables

•    100% of teachers indicated that the program helped with reinforcing the teaching of Kentucky Academic Standard K.1.2 – Describe the importance of choosing healthy foods 

•    100% of teachers and school systems invited us back for 2026