Youth are lacking the skills needed to prepare and enjoy snacks and meals. Food preparation skills are important for youth especially during breaks from school when they be home more. Having access to nutritious and healthy foods is a definite bonus. The Cumberland County Family and Consumer Sciences agent partnered with the Cumberland County Elementary School administrators and teachers to offer the Recipes for Life program to fifth grade students. Throughout the school year, the FCS Agent worked with students to teach nutrition and develop food preparation skills. At the end of the learning sessions, the students were able to visit the Cumberland County Cooperative Extension Office to put their newly learned skills to the test.

Students were put into small groups and paired with an adult volunteer. Groups were able to prepare a recipe from the curriculum under the guidance of the volunteer and then enjoy sampling the recipes made as a group. Students then receive a book containing nutritious recipes and kitchen utensils to be able to use at home. 6 volunteers worked with students in preparing the recipes and 58 students participated in Recipes for Life. 

As a result of the program, students gained the following knowledge and skills:

97% recognized the food groups that compromise MyPlate.

91% formulated time management strategies in meal preparation.

93% identified correct technique for accurately measuring ingredients.

90% identified ways to avoid burns in the kitchen.

78% plan to eat more fruits.

67% plan to eat more vegetables.

79% plan to try new foods.