During the past 20 years, there has been a dramatic increase in obesity in Kentucky and rates remain high--19.7% obesity rate for Kentucky youth ages 10 to 17 years old, which is eighth highest in the nation (CDC). Diet quality indicators for Kentucky reflect low intake of fruit and vegetables among both adults and adolescents—37% of adolescents consume fruit less than once daily, and 38.5% consume vegetables less than once daily (CDC). The current USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans, states everyone has a role in encouraging easy, accessible, and affordable ways to support healthy choices—including schools, which is where children spend a majority of their time.

To respond to the obesity prevalence and poor fruit and vegetable intake in youth, the Scott County Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent collaborated with administrators and teachers from Southern and Stamping Ground Elementary Schools to offer the Recipes for Life Program to 175 fifth grade students. 59 volunteers from Extension Homemakers’ Clubs, FCCLA High School Students, and our local fire department worked with students in a hands-on educational setting to teach important life skills including nutrition, food safety, and cooking skills. A pretest/posttest evaluation was conducted to determine learning outcomes. As a result of the program, students gained the following knowledge: 

• 99% identified ways to avoid burns in the kitchen.
• 98% correctly identified safe hand washing practices.
• 97% recognized the food groups that comprise MyPlate

In addition, as a result of attending the Recipe for Life program, students plan to make the following behavior changes:

• 97% stated they plan to help prepare food at home
• 94% stated they plan to eat more fruits after attending the program

Students that attended the program wrote thank you notes to volunteers and coordinators. Their notes included many positive comments about the program such as: “I really liked learning how to measure! I had trouble with measuring before but now I really understand it” and “It was really fun learning to cook because now I can cook for my family.” 

Plans are in place to continue this grant funded program in the future. We hope to expand the program and include more elementary schools in Scott County.