~~Literacy, Eating and Activity for Primary

The Nutrition Education Program at the Calloway County Extension Service provided the Literacy, Eating and Activity for Primary, “LEAP” program. The program reached 212 students of the local elementary school district in grades from kindergarten thru third grade. The focus of the program is to encourage healthy eating and physical activity through a series of books that are read by the Nutrition Assistant. During a minimum of six visits per classrooms, the nutrition assistant demonstrated a fruit or vegetable that the students might not be familiar with and provide the opportunity to taste it. On the 2010 Census, Calloway County population was of 37,191, of those 21.1 % persons live in poverty.The local school district are designated as providing free and reduce meals. The LEAP program has given the opportunity to the students to explore and learn about new flavors that they might not have from home.  Teachers have express that the students are willing to taste new foods too when they visit they cafeteria. Participants received jump ropes and small footballs so that they can exercise at home too. In conclusion, students have made some fruits or vegetables their new favorites, like mango and beets.