Childhood obesity is a serious problem in the United States putting children and adolescents at risk for poor health.  The prevalence of obesity was 18.5 percent and affected about 13.7 million children and adolescents.  With hand held devices and computer learning being the norm for most in today’s school systems, children aren’t getting enough physical activity.

Through a partnership between the Owsley County Schools and the Owsley County Extension Service, a series of lessons were taught to the sixth grade class called Exploring My Plate with Professor Popcorn.  This curriculum will help young people develop into healthy adults by gaining an interest in eating healthy foods, using safe food handling techniques, and making physical activity part of their lifestyle.

During these lessons students were taught about My Plate, healthy food choices and also the importance of getting 60 minutes of physical activity as well as reducing screen time.

Over half the students who participated in this class not only improved diet quality but also increased daily physical activity as well.  So in conclusion the increase in physical activity lead to a decrease in non-school work screen time.