Childhood obesity has become a public health crisis. Food For Thought is addressing this problem through in-class instruction, informational programs targeted at parents, and hands-on experience
through the Salad Bar program.

School age children are developing life-long eating habits. One of Food For Thought’s main goals is to ensure that plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables become an important part of our children’s diets over the long term. By eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, children will be less likely to suffer from obesity, diabetes and other health problems.

IN-CLASS EDUCATION
Students learn the importance of eating a varied diet. Kindergarten, 2nd and 3rd grade students are taught about the different food groups and creating balanced meals. Lessons for 6th graders emphasize the importance of making healthy choices as well as hands-on experience with portion sizes and reading product labels. All elementary students are regularly given the opportunity to “taste-test” seasonal produce featured in the FFT Salad Bar as well as easy recipes to make healthy snacks at home.

In Junior and Senior High School, nutrition education lessons explore the role of genetics and behavior and how making the right food choices can have a positive impact on overall health.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH CLASSES
Evening Family Health Forums for Spanish-speaking families provide information on childhood nutrition, exercise requirements, and general health issues. We have provided hands-on demonstrations of the amount of sugars and fats in processed and fresh foods as well as provided healthy recipes and menu ideas through our newsletters.