Examining Second Graders’ Healthy Food Choices: Through Literacy and Active Learning

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the implementation of a nutrition module and activities ( Go, Slow, Whoa ) in a literacy environment through an active learning approach. Second graders (N = 85) from diverse socioeconomic status (SES) areas completed the 12-week program. The participants’ perceptions of healthy food choices were measured both pre- and post-intervention. Students met for 30 minutes twice a week, to complete 5-lessons from a Coordinated Approach to Child Health ( CATCH ) nutrition module and activities ( Go, Slow, Whoa ). Measures were taken both pre- and post-intervention ( Food Fury Quiz) to distinguishing between healthy and unhealthy foods (images). There was a statistically significant improvement ( t = 12.16, df =84, P = .000) from pretest ( M = 19.06, SD = 3.13) and posttest ( M = 23.34, SD = 0.48) scores. Administering a healthy food choice curriculum through literacy and active learning provides an alternative approach to improving health knowledge among second grade students.