| This resource could be a wonderful aid for SNAP-Ed providers and other nutrition educators working to teach elementary school children the importance of healthy eating and physical activity. The kit consists of 20 activities appropriate for children. Many activities are accompanied by black and white copy-ready worksheets in English and Spanish. The activities are based on the principles from MyPyramid and also include links to the California health education content standards.
Kit activities include both classroom lessons and more physical games and activities. Most activities take about 30 minutes each, with prep time varying from 5 to 20 minutes. Activities are designed to build upon one another, but can be completed out of order with slight modification or review. Each activity also includes options to expand the lesson either by making it more challenging or adding the length of the activity and suggestions on how the children can practice the activity or lesson learned at home.
Basic nutrition and physical education information is provided for those who do not have a background in nutrition education, citing specific research studies that reinforce the importance of nutrition education. Additional resources are available in the appendix, along with sample letters for parents and for requesting assistance, a calendar of healthy eating and physical activity events, and additional puzzles and games. The introduction also includes strategies for creating a healthy youth organization by improving the food environment and putting healthy food policies in place for the children.
This resource is designed for children age 5 to 11 years; however, many of the activities are better suited for older children, ages 9 to 11. Worksheets may focus on difficult topics; some include small font and big words. Some activities address this by including modifications for younger children. The authors suggest having the children work together, with the older children helping the younger ones, which would be helpful if the group includes children of varying ages.
Because of the unique and fun activities included in this kit, this resource is a great tool for SNAP-Ed providers working in after-school, weekend and summer programs with elementary school age children.
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