Describe the Issue or Situation.

The 7th graders of West Jessamine Middle School tend to be on smart phones, video games, electronics quite often as well as other kids their age, while eating meals. The FCS teacher from WJMS reached out to me to see if I could come in and speak to the students on the importance of mindful eating.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).

I put together a PowerPoint educating the students on mindfulness in general, the importance of mindful practices, specifically mindful eating. After finishing the PowerPoint, the students got a chance to practice mindful eating. each student got 3 goldfish to start out. I encouraged the students to use the 5 senses and practice small "mindful bites". First, the students looked at the goldfish. What did they notice? What color was it? What shape was it? What stood out. Secondly, they felt the goldfish. When they held it in their hand, what did it feel like? Was it soft or hard? Squishy or rough? Third, the students smelled the goldfish. How would you describe the smell. Next, they put the goldfish in their mouth. They revisited the feel and determined what it felt like in their mouth. Before they were allowed to chew, what was the first thing they tasted? Sweet or salty? Sour or savory? As they began to chew, did the texture change? flavor or sound? As they began to chew, what did they hear? a crunch? The students repeated all 5 senses with the next food item, which was a orange/clementine.

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

There was 55 students total in the 7th grade class

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.

There were 55 7th graders total.

84% of students had a better level of understanding after the program, then they did before.

71% of students intended to limit distractions that keep me from eating mindfully.

73% of students intended to incorporate one new mindfulness strategy into their daily routine to cultivate a healthier relationship with food.

73% of students were satisfied with  the program and found the program practical to themselves