According to the most recent studies of 2011 21% of Kentucky youth ages 2 -17 are considered obese. Greenup Co. has an obesity rate of 31.9%. The obesity rate of Greenup County is higher than the state average. This results in an even higher risk of developing serious chronic diseases at an earlier age in life.

In collaboration with Russell Preschool and the Greenup co. Extension services: The Snap- Ed assistant held a six week series that was provided to the students at Russell Preschool where 63 Students Participated in the series. The Snap Ed assistant utilized the LEAP Curriculum as the basis of the series. The Students participated in hands on learning and received literature about each food group as well as participated in physical activities.

The students were also encouraged to be a part of the: “Discovering healthy habits club”; as a way to get them to try new foods that they had not ever been exposed to. The students would spend a portion of their lesson, learning about all the different textures, smells and appearances of the fruits and veggies. All of the students participated in trying new foods.

Several teachers, stated they were so pleased to see even the , “picky eaters” were not only trying new foods which was an accomplishment in its self, but that enjoyed them and would even ask for them during the school day.