Together We Can Make a Difference!

May 24, 2019

Together We Can Make a Difference!

May 24, 2019

Student taste testing chicken soup
UCCE in partnership with the Department of Hospitality Management at West Hills Community College - Lemoore and preschools located at the college campus embraced a collaborative approach to promoting healthy eating and active living by helping preschoolers learn the concepts and taste Go Glow Grow foods.  During April - May, 2019, collaborative partnership efforts captivated preschoolers' attention with key MyPlate messages and tastes tests. All of the preschoolers received six weeks of Go Glow Grow curriculum education from UC CalFresh Nutrition Education Program, while twelve community college students from the culinary department shared recipes and conducted food demonstrations and taste tests.  Nine preschool teachers consistently supported the program.  Upon completion of the program, preschoolers received a graduation certificate and a chef's hat. Success stories, lesson observations and activities indicated increased knowledge of preschoolers about MyPlate food groups and willingness to try foods from all food groups. What began as a needs assessment to examine the nutrition practices of early childhood education settings, this program ended on a promising note to continue promoting the health and well-being of young children!


By Susan L Lafferty
Author - Community Education Specialist
By Deepa Sirvastra
Author