The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services statistics indicate 28% of Americans age six and over are physically inactive, and spend more than 7.5 hours in front of a screen daily.  HHS.gov also indicates, “Empty calories from added sugars and solid fats contribute to 40% of total daily calories for 2–18 year olds and half of these empty calories come from six sources: soda, fruit drinks, dairy desserts, grain desserts, pizza, and whole milk.^”  To address these issues the Butler County Family and Consumer Science Agent along with the Butler County Nutrition Education Program Assistant, conducted a three-day nutrition summer camp for children ages five through eight.  

Wally Wildcat’s Super Summer Camp met at the Butler County Extension Office for a total of 12 hours. Hands on learning through lessons, games, stories, physical activities and food preparation was used to teach the youth. New fruits and vegetables, whole grains and low fat dairy were introduced to the children.  This resulted in 47% increased knowledge of vegetables, 37% increase knowledge of identifying fruits, and 53% increase knowledge of identifying dairy.   The children also showed a 26% improvement in knowledge of what is physical activity.  

This Nutrition Education Program was a success and the participating children were taught the importance of eating healthy and exercising. One grandparent stated her grandson has asked for fruit at snack time instead of chips or candy since attending the camp.