Growing Healthy Habits
Calistoga Elementary’s Nutrition and Fitness Program
Thanks to a grant from the California Nutrition Network, Calistoga Elementary is offering students and parents many opportunities to improve health and academic achievement. During and after-school cooking and nutrition classes, plus extra fitness activities throughout the day, will help students and families overcome the ‘obesity epidemic’ that is sweeping the nation.Improper nutrition and inadequate physical activity will soon be the No. 1 cause of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and death in this country. The California Nutrition Network is hoping to reverse this alarming trend by developing healthy eating and exercise habits in children and families. An added bonus: good nutrition improves academic performance by increasing focus and reducing absenteeism!
Many fun and exciting activities are planned for the 2005-2006 school year. Nutrition and cooking instruction will be provided directly to students in the classrooms and through the after school programs at CES. Teachers and aides will be trained in how to integrate more nutrition, fitness and school garden activities into the regular curricula. Families are invited to join students inHarvest of the Month food tastings on frequent Wednesdays. Parent and family cooking and nutrition classes will be offered through The Family Center. Guest chefs, farmers and exercise instructors will share their expertise in special workshops. All activities are free to participants, and include samples of any foods prepared, plus recipes. Free childcare will be available during parents’ classes.
All student events will be posted on the School Calendar, described in a newsletter to go out with the cafeteria’s monthly menu. Parent classes will be promoted through The Family Center. Volunteers are needed to help with the Harvest of the Month and cooking activities. Please call the school if you are interested in helping or if you have any questions.
California Nutrition Network: www.Ca5aday.com
California Project LEAN: www.DHS.CA.GOV/LEAN
USDA Web Site: www.fns.usda.gov/fsp