Smoothies are popular with people of all ages, from small children all the way to older adults. They are fun to make, nutritious, versatile, and brightly colored. Some people choose smoothies as a snack or even a full meal, depending on the ingredients. Unfortunately, smoothies can be costly when you buy them at the grocery or store. To educate participants on the appeal of a smoothie and the basic steps to build a smoothie, the Boyd County Extension Office presented the Building a Better Smoothie lesson to the Catlettsburg Elementary after school student Garden Club. 
The Building a Better Smoothie lesson focused on the basic steps to building a smoothie and ingredient ideas. Extension developed this lesson to teach people how to make smoothies that are nutritious,flavorful, and exciting. The goal is to increase knowledge and skills related to making smoothies as a way to increase nutritious food choices. 13 people participated in the program, 11 student in the 4th and 5th grade and 2 teachers. Of the participants there were 8 females and 5 males.

Participants completed a follow-up evaluation at the end of the lesson. Of those surveyed, 100% indicated they understand common ingredients, and 100% indicated they understand the common steps to make a smoothie.  About 100% reported they understand ways to add variety to smoothies with fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious ingredients. Further, 75 % acknowledged they plan to prepare a smoothie at home to add nutritious foods to their diet. Lastly, 50% plan to try a fruit or vegetable in a smoothie that they do not typically eat.