Family Nutrition Program For Youth
Joeline Swann, Nutrition Outreach Instructor
Our Nutrition Outreach Instructors (NOIs) have undergone extensive training in nutrition, youth instruction techniques and the chosen curriculum. There are two primary types of youth programming activities. The first takes place during the school year and includes nine weeks of nutrition programming as supplemental activity to the school day. The second element of youth programming includes summer camp activities. All programming utilizes nutrition curriculum approved by a review committee and our staff registered dietitian.
School Programming
NOIs provide lessons over a nine-week period to 3rd, 4th and 5th graders at elementary schools with at least 50% free and reduced lunch participation. This program utilizes the Show Me Nutrition curriculum developed by the University of Missouri Extension Service. The NOIs use Show Me Nutrition to teach children that good health is a result of good food choices. Food choices are recommended according to the USDA’s My Pyramid for Kids. Physical activity, which is also a part of this curriculum, is demonstrated in the classroom and encourages children to incorporate regular physical activity into their daily routine.
Summer Programming
FNP summer programming is dynamic and varies according to the needs of local communities. Nutrition education includes programming incorporated into day camps ranging from one to six weeks in length, as well as participating in a variety of residential camps. The Healthy Camp Challenge curriculum has been developed by the Family Nutrition Program in coordination with WVU Extension Service.
For more information about Youth Nutrition Programming, contact Joeline Swann, Nutrition Outreach Instructor at 304/291-7201 or Email.
Ms. Swann at work in Monongalia County Schools