Healthy Latino Families and Schools: Elementary School Students

Project Description Narrative:

Latino children are at a very high risk for being overweight and physically inactive putting them at a higher likelihood of developing health complications such as very early onset Type 2 diabetes, an increased risk of hypertension, and cardiovascular disease, among others. Poverty can contribute to overweight in Latinos, and language barriers also make accessing health information and resources more challenging.

To help Latino children and their families achieve healthier eating and increased physical activity, this project will develop and deliver a culturally appropriate, integrated school-and family-based program focused on nutrient intake and physical activity.

To do this, the project will modify the current school meal program to a healthier Latino cuisine, and infuse more physical activity and targeted health education messages into the current curriculum. To reinforce the school-based intervention and sustain behavioral changes, a family-based early evening educational program will be offered at the start of the school year to support parents and children making healthy changes together at home.

Community partner: United Community Center