Success StoryCultivating Foodie Kids



Cultivating Foodie Kids

Author: Billie Porciello

Planning Unit: Boone County CES

Major Program: Accessing Nutritious Foods (general)

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

In 2017, there were over 21,000 homeschool students K-12 in Kentucky. According to The Kentucky Department of Education, the parent is responsible for providing the curriculum and the instructional materials for children being homeschooled. Families explore and research programs to enhance their teaching curriculum and give opportunity to network with other homeschoolers. The Boone County Cooperative Extension Nutrition Program Assistant developed a series of classes teaching “Healthy Choices for Every Body” and “Superstar Chef” for both the parent/caregiver and child to work together. The assistant taught a recurring group of families for one year at the Extension office cooking lab. The topics included food safety, reading food labels, and how to create balanced meals. The group reported that their children are experimenting with new foods because they are involved in cooking the meal. Data analyzed by a national reporting system from parent behavior survey shows 100% of the adults are now planning meals before shopping. The children are involved in making list and researching weekly sale items needed for recipes. One participant, Leisa H. stated, “This is a wonderful experience to have with our children. I am so thankful for the inspiration to eat healthier at home. This is a great resource for homeschoolers to connect with each other and have fun at the same time. We can incorporate cooking science into all subjects we teach because of ideas learned here.”

***  https://education.ky.gov/federal/fed/Pages/Home-School.aspx andhttps://a2zhomeschooling.com








Stories by Billie Porciello


Eating For the Health of It

about 7 years ago by Billie Porciello

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Kentucky has the fifth-highest rate of ... Read More


Healthy Eating For a Strong Heart Beating

about 7 years ago by Billie Porciello

High blood pressure affects nearly 28% of the adult population in Kentucky. In Boone County 34% of r... Read More


Stories by Boone County CES


Teens Gain Leadership and Citizenship Skills to Prepare for College and Careers

Teens Gain Leadership and Citizenship Skills to Prepare for College and Careers

about 6 years ago by Paul Adkins

The Boone County Extension County Extension Council and 4-H Council expressed need to develop additi... Read More


4-H Cloverbuds Explore New Things Outside of the Classroom

about 6 years ago by Paul Adkins

Parents are often contacting the Extension Office looking for opportunities for children below the a... Read More