The Caldwell County Family & Consumer Sciences Agent and SNAP-Ed Senior Assistant combined the idea of families reading together and cooking together to form Little Books, Little Cooks.  Thirteen families with preschool age children attended the program.  Program topics included: Hand Washing, Safety in the Kitchen, and MyPlate. Participants read a story together and then prepared a healthy snack with their families.  Participants practiced hand washing, following safety rules in the kitchen, and comparing healthy foods with unhealthy foods.  The children learned when it was necessary and appropriate to wash their hands.  They also were introduced to the basic food groups and the difference in “sometimes” foods and healthier foods.  

There is a natural link between nutrition, physical activity and reading. Reading books that focus on preparing and eating healthy foods may motivate children to adopt positive food behaviors that last a lifetime. Related children books could help promote positive attitudes about vegetables, fruits, dairy, grains and protein foods. Cooking together as a family is important. It helps children develop self-confidence and learn how to make nutritious choices that will carry on into adulthood.  Learning to chop, squeeze, spread, and mix help children have skills they will use into adulthood.  These activities give children the opportunity to learn about nutrition skills 54% of participants started plan meals before shopping more often.  Safety in the Kitchen important part of skills adults and youth need to have knowledge about. 69% of participants used a thermometer.