Kids learn and get healthy at camp - Tip-Off

Parks & Recreation, Sept, 2002

Saying that kids won't eat healthy foods or get active is a cop-out. The Hearts N' Parks program is not only proving this point, but also helping communities become healthier in the process. The McAllister Recreation Center's Day Camp is one example of science and fun mingling to help kids learn about healthy lifestyles. The Lafayette, Ind., camp averaged 40 kids a day during its seven-week run. Each day, counselors helped campers enjoy typical day camp programs, but with an added focus on health. They walk more instead of jumping on the bus for a field trip. Speakers such as doctors and dietitians come to talk to the kids. Campers snack on healthy treats and participe in CATCH (Child and Adolescent Trial on Cardiovascular Health) games.

"At first they weren't open to grapes, apples or vegetables, but through the course of the summer we heard less complaining," says Jon Miner, assistant manager for McAllister Recreation Center. "Some kids started saying grapes were cool."

Indiana has been identified as one of the country's most unhealthy states, with high incidences of obesity and smoking. The Governor's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, charged with promoting physical activity in Indiana, Lafayette's mayor and other health officials are monitoring the program to identify replicable best practices that will improve the health of their citizens.

During the first week of camp and again at the end, the kids were tested on their nutrition and health knowledge. In all but one category, the McAllister kids' answers improved. Hearts N' Parks, cosponsored by NRPA and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health, incorporates science-based programs into the regular activities offered by local park and recreation departments to improve the diet and activity levels of citizens.

For more information, contact Jennifer Martin at 202-887-0290 or jmartin@nrpa.org.