Progress 09/01/12 to 08/31/18
Outputs
Target Audience:The primary audiences are third and fourth graders from Meriden, Danbury, Willimantic, Waterbury and New Haven, CT. According to the US Census QuickFacts (2014 Estimates), the population is 60,456 people (Meriden), 83,684 (Danbury), and 17,737 (Willimantic) and 109,307 (Waterbury) and 129,934 (New Haven, 2016 estimate). Other respective data is as follows: Hispanic/Latino 30% and 25% and 40%, 31 %, 27%; Black 13% and 7% and 8%, 35%; Asian 2% and 7%and 2% , 20% and 4% ; persons below poverty level 14% and 11% and 30%, 24% and 27%. The CT Profile and Performance Reports (2013-14) for Roger Sherman and Nathan Hale (Meriden), Morris Street and Shelter Rock (Danbury) and Sweeney School (Windham), Waterbury Schools (Regan) and New Haven (West Rock Academy and Hill Central) reveal ranges as follows: total minority student population 60 to 81%; Hispanic/Latino 44 to 70%; Black 6 to 10%; Asian 0 to 10%. The range of students eligible for free/reduced price meals is 54%-86%. Achievement of reaching the health standard for all four physical fitness tests (flexibility, abdominal strength, endurance, upper-body strength and aerobic endurance) is 26%- 59%. Teenagers were recruited from the high schools or community agencies in each respective site and were trained as 4-H Teen Mentors to work along with Adult 4-H leaders to deliver nutrition, fitness and gardening lessons/hands-on activities, including the planning and planting of vegetables, fruits and herb plants at each site. Families were also engaged in Family Nights, which included fitness activities, food demonstrations and garden planting activities/demonstrations. Academic year programming reached over 7,746 youth and families. Changes/Problems:A journal article submitted to Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior for special exercise and nutrition edition, but article was recommended to be revised. Article is currently being revised and will be submitted as a new submission by end of November, 2018. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?In-services and workshop topics for 4-H Teen Mentors and 4-H Adult Leaders included: Department of Children and Families Mandated Reporter Training, CPR/AED/first aid training, Junior Master Gardener, work readiness, 4-H leadership, youth development/ages & stages, team building, diversity training, nutrition and food safety, public speaking & presentation skills, curriculum development/lesson planning, recipe preparation & food demonstration skills, and epi pen training (Adult Leaders only) and social media training. Staff attended and conducted presentations the National Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior Conferences and various UConn College of Agriculture and Natural Resources presentations about the project. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Social media has been used to disseminate information to communities via the website, Facebook and Twitter. Social media trending via Facebook, Twitter and Website reveals more new visitors, interest peaks in the fall and spring. There have also been health fairs, 4-H County Fairs, parent-teacher nights, family nights, as well as presentations to legislators. Newsletters were also disseminated to families. CT Fitness and Nutrition Clubs In Motion. Afterschool 4-H STEM curriculum was launched on a CMS (content management system) to be made available to community facilitators, 4-H Staff, EFNEP Staff, Master Gardeners and elementary school teachers. Infusionsoft software was used to disseminate healthy recipes to Extension professionals. Results were also presented at professional society abstract presentations, poster sessions and invited talks for Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior and UConn College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Over the 5 years, 114 program staff, adult leaders, teen mentors, fitness instructors, chefs, consultants, and interns were identified and trained. A curriculum and leader's guide was developed, tested, revised, and finalized for dissemination. The curriculum and leader's guide was developed into a self-taught online curriculum for educators to become trained and use the resources in their programs. A website and Facebook page were developed to keep community partners and the 4-H community informed of program updates. An evaluation tool to collect youth data was developed by New Mexico State University (NMSU) to be used via iPad. An interactive parent child cooking website with recipes videos and app were developed by NMSU. A NMSU graduate student tested the "KidsEats App" on parents and youth. Results were positive and there were plans for further implementation. 4-H Fitness and Nutrition Clubs (FANs) In Motion (IM) had 12 (8-week) afterschool sessions, 7 (6-8 week) summer sessions, 24 summer family nights/events, 28 recess sessions, 32 family nights, 27 wellness fairs/farmers markets, 4 kickoff events. Over 100 garden bed kits were distributed to over 30 mini-grant recipients. One city earned a Let's Move designation. Newsletters were developed and distributed to all sites. The program worked with 3 Family Resources Centers. 4-H Teen Mentors presented at 7 4-H fairs/events, including 4-H Citizenship Day. All sites, excluding one, continue to be sustained sites. Program sites report continued use of the raised garden beds to supply school and local community with fresh vegetables. Nutrition, healthy eating, fitness, and gardening materials continue to be disseminated to new students. Sites have also reported continued collaborations with community agencies, including local YMCA's and Parks and Recreation. Teen Mentors have gone on to graduate from high school and attend college. One agency reported their Teen Mentors went on to be the first people in their family to continue their studies beyond high school. More than anything, reports indicate that this program has helped instill a love of nature with an ability to be outdoors, be active, and grow their own healthy foods.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Taylor U.R., Russo Kelly M., Torv L., Annette D., Puglisi M. Connecticut Fitness and Nutriton Clubs In Motion, A 4-H STEM Program - Summary and Outcome. Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior, Minneapolis, MN 2018 (7S, pp S113).
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Taylor U.R., Hamiliton W., Volek A.L., CT Fitness and Nutrition Program In Motion, 4-H STEM Program, SNEB 2013 (4S, pp S90)
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Taylor U.R., Kelly M., Torv L., Puglisi M., Rathey D. An intersciplinary mixed methodological impact assessment of a 4-H after school fitness and nutrition club.SNEB (pending re-submission)
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Taylor U.R., Castro L., Otero R. Fitness and Nutrition Education Program 4-H STM, seeds of hcange for sutainable living , SNEP 2014 ($S, pp S201).
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Progress 09/01/16 to 08/31/17
Outputs
Target Audience:The primary audiences are third and fourth graders from Meriden, Danbury, Willimantic, Waterbury and New Haven, CT. According to the US Census QuickFacts (2014 Estimates), the population is 60,456 people (Meriden), 83,684 (Danbury), and 17,737 (Willimantic) and 109,307 (Waterbury) and 129,934 (New Haven, 2016 estimate). Other respective data is as follows: Hispanic/Latino 30% and 25% and 40%, 31 %, 27%; Black 13% and 7% and 8%, 35%; Asian 2% and 7%and 2% , 20% and 4% ; persons below poverty level 14% and 11% and 30%, 24% and 27%. The CT Profile and Performance Reports (2013-14) for Roger Sherman and Nathan Hale (Meriden), Morris Street and Shelter Rock (Danbury) and Sweeney School (Windham), Waterbury Schools (Regan) and New Haven (West Rock Academy and Hill Central) reveal ranges as follows: total minority student population 60 to 81%; Hispanic/Latino 44 to 70%; Black 6 to 10%; Asian 0 to 10%. The range of students eligible for free/reduced price meals is 54%-86%. Achievement of reaching the health standard for all four physical fitness tests (flexibility, abdominal strength, endurance, upper-body strength and aerobic endurance) is 26%-59%.Teenagers were recruited from the high schools or community agencies in each respective site and were trained as 4-H Teen Mentors to work along with Adult 4-H leaders to deliver nutrition, fitness and gardening lessons/hands-on activities, including the planning and planting of vegetables, fruits and herb plants at each site. Families were also engaged in Family Nights, which included fitness activities, food demonstrations and garden planting activities/demonstrations. Academic year programming reached over 1,000 youth and families and will project over 1,100 youth and families during summer programming. Changes/Problems:Due to unforeseen problems in school delays, testing, and weather related concerns, there was change with data collection scheduling and academic year schedules; the additional time is needed for final data analysis, sustainability efforts of program sites from final year, and dissemination to professional and research networks of analyzed data via journal submissions What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?In-services and workshop topics for 4-H Teen Mentors and 4-H Adult Leaders included: Department of Children and Families Mandated Reporter Training, CPR/AED/first aid training, Junior Master Gardener, work readiness, 4-H leadership, youth development/ages & stages, team building, diversity training, nutrition and food safety, public speaking & presentation skills, curriculum development/lesson planning, recipe preparation & food demonstration skills, and epi pen training (Adult Leaders only). Staff attended the SNEB conference. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Social media has been used to disseminate information to communities via the website, Facebook and Twitter. Social media trending via Facebook, Twitter and Website reveals more new visitors, interest peaks in the fall and spring; over 1,000 webpage views and Facebook newsfeed posts. There have also been health fairs, 4-H County Fairs, parent-teacher nights, family nights, as well as presentations to legislators. Newsletters were also disseminated to families. CT Fitness and Nutrition Clubs In Motion, Afterschool 4-H STEM curriculum was launched on a CMS (content management system) to be made available to community facilitators, 4-H Staff, EFNEP Staff, Master Gardeners and elementary school teachers What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?In-service training and supports for site leaders and 4-H teen mentors (continue) Identify, recruit and train leaders and teens for next city site (completed) Website, social media reach, and video vignettes (continue and maintain) Online launch of curriculum training platform and cooking garden app (continue and maintain) Input data and analysis into iPad and SPSS systems (continue) Survey and measurement evaluations (completed) CT FANs IM year-round programming, garden site identification/planting, and summer session engagement (completed) Community outreach via health fairs, farmer's markets, etc.(completed) Distribution of raised garden beds (completed) Incremental steps for site sustainability for each site; and assist with sustainability (continue) Replicate intervention model in new site (completed)
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Major activities completed/experiments conducted: Evaluation data was successfully interfaced with i-Pad Technology. Three new sites completed an 8 week study with continuing academic and summer programming. Self efficacy questionnaires were administered to youth at three sites via a qualtrics format. Twelve family nights( reached over 300 youth and 275 adults) . Three sites have been established and sustained 4-H STEM as a weekly program for the entire elementary school population ( 49 participants for weekly for academic year ) in addition to an upcoming summer 4-H STEM program for CT FANS IM summer programs (projected over 700 contacts); Summer Farmer market food demonstrations (project over 400 attendees). Twenty garden bed kits were distributed to four schools. The community and school partners have planted and harvested a variety of crops and herbs such as eggplants, tomatoes, peppers, carrots, basil, lettuce, green beans, sage, thyme, squash, cucumbers, strawberries, etc. Data collected: Raw data was collected for 42 youth at three sites; complete data sets will be analyzed. Thirty-four qualitative interviews were done with youth from years 3, 4 and 5. Evaluation collection includes questionnaires about nutrition, fitness and self-efficacy. Physical data included fitness measures based on the Presidential and school fitness tests (curl ups, pacer test, sit and reach, push-ups, skinfolds, height, weight). Data for all years will be analyzed and summarized for publication. Summary: statistics and discussion of results- pending final analysis. Conclusions/Implications: Final analysis by complete data sets pending. Despite the limited intervention time, data suggests a positive influence of behaviors, attitudes, healthy eating, fitness and self-efficacy. The sustainability of CT FANs IM, 4-H STEM programming and gardening has been interwoven with committed school staff and volunteers. For the remainder of the grant, the team will promote the online CT FANs IM curriculum, cooking videos and interactive app via 4-H, EFNEP and current partners and families. These outputs will help to extend the life and influence in prevention of childhood obesity via CT FANs IM.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Taylor U.R., Russo Kelly M., Castro L., Brush L.C, Annette D., Chamberlin B., Smith Muise A., Johnson S. , Bussman S. Connecticut Fitness and Nutrition Clubs In Motion Reflection and Future of 4-H STEM in the Prevention of Childhood Obesity. Washington, DC (2017)
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Progress 09/01/15 to 08/31/16
Outputs
Target Audience:The primary audiences are third and fourth graders from Meriden, Danbury,Willimantic, and Waterbury CT. According to the US Census QuickFacts (2014 Estimates), the population is 60,456 people (Meriden), 83,684 (Danbury), and 17,737 (Willimantic) and 109,307 (Waterbury). Other respective data is as follows: Hispanic/Latino 30% and 25% and 40%, 31 % for Waterbury. Black 13% and 7% and 8%, Asian 2% and 7%and 2% and 20% for Waterbury; persons below poverty level 14% and 11% and 30% and 24% for Waterbury. The CT Profile and Performance Reports (2013-14) for Roger Sherman and Nathan Hale (Meriden), Morris Street and Shelter Rock (Danbury) and Sweeney School (Windham), Waterbury Schools reveal ranges as follows: total minority student population 60 to 81%; Hispanic/Latino 44 to 70%; Black 6 to 10%; Asian 0 to 10%. The range of students eligible for free/reduced price meals is 54%-86%. Achievement of reaching the health standard for all four physical fitness tests (flexibility, abdominal strength, endurance, upper-body strength and aerobic endurance) is 26%-59%.Teenagers were recruited from the high schools or community agencies in each respective site and were trained as 4-H Teen Mentors to work along with Adult 4-H leaders to deliver nutrition, fitness and gardening lessons/hands-on activities, including the planning and planting of vegetables, fruits and herb plants at each site. Families were also engaged in Family Nights, which included fitness activities, food demonstrations and garden planting activities/demonstrations. Programming reached over 1,600 youth and families and will project 400-500 youth and families during summer programming. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?In-services and workshop topics for 4-H Teen Mentors and 4-H Adult Leaders included: Department of Children and Families Mandated Reporter Training, CPR/AED/first aid training, Junior Master Gardener, work readiness, 4-H leadership, youth development/ages & stages, team building, diversity training, nutrition and food safety, public speaking & presentation skills, curriculum development/lesson planning, recipe preparation & food demonstration skills, and epi pen training (Adult Leaders only). Staff attended the SNEB conference. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Social media has been used to disseminate information to communities via the website, Facebook and Twitter. Social media trending via FaceBook, Twitter and Website reveals more new visitors, interest peaks in the fall and spring; 1,964 webpage views and Facebook newsfeed posts of 5,110 times. The have also been health fairs, 4-H County Fairs, parent-teacher nights, family nights, as well as presentations to legislators. Newsletters were also disseminated to families. CT Fitness and Nutrition Clubs In Motion, Afterschool 4-H STEM curriculum pending live launch on a CMS (content management system) to be made available to community facilitators interested in implementing as well as cooking garden app with interactive videos, recipes and recipe simulations. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Maintain in-service training and supports for site leaders and 4-H teen mentors. Identify, recruit and train leaders and teens for next city site. Continue to develop and expand website, social media reach, and video vignettes. Continue towards online launch of curriculum training platform and cooking garden app. Continue input data and analysis into iPad and SPSS systems. Continue survey and measurement evaluations. Continue weekly CT FANs IM year-round programming, garden site identification/planting, and summer session engagement. Continue community outreach via health fairs, farmer's markets, etc. Engage other sites with distribution of raised garden beds. Increase incremental steps for site sustainability for each continued site; continue assist sustainability. Replicate intervention model in new site.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Major activities completed/experiments conducted: Evaluation data was successfully interfaced with i-Pad Technology. Two additional sites completed 8 week study and continued with programming for the academic year. Five family nights and two health fairs were conducted. Two schools have sustained 4-H STEM as a weekly program for the entire elementary school population in addition to an upcoming summer 4-H STEM program for the entire citywide summer program. Twenty-four garden bed kits were distributed to ten schools and one community agency. The community and school partners have planted and harvested a variety of crops and herbs such as eggplants, tomatoes, peppers, carrots, basil, lettuce, green beans, sage, thyme, squash, cucumbers, strawberries, etc. One school teacher also started a classroom aquaponics system for herbs. Data collected: Twenty-seven completed data sets have been analyzed. Data sets are being collected for the two additional sites. Evaluation collection includes questionnaires about nutrition, fitness and self-esteem. Physical data included fitness measures based on the Presidential and school fitness tests (curl ups, pacer test, sit and reach, push-ups, skinfolds, height, weight). Summary statistics and discussion of results: Baseline indicators for unhealthy food intakes were low. Post intervention, intakes were lower for sweets, fast food and water while there were increased intakes of beans and 100% fruit juice. In site A, white milk consumption increased and flavored milk decreased. In site B, there were increased intakes of white and flavored milk. Overall, students reported making more healthy food choices (especially eating more fruit, vegetables, high fiber cereal, and 100% fruit juice). There were indicator trends for improved flexibility, muscular strength and endurance. Conclusions/Implications: The study sample size (n=27) represented 48% of participating students due to weather-related school cancellations, absenteeism, and early parent pick up during testing periods. There needs to be more emphasis on increased water intake and caution with flavored milk and 100% juice intakes. Our preliminary data indicate that programs have potential to increase knowledge of healthier food choices, encourage better exercise habits, and improve flexibility. Although definitive conclusions could not be ascertained due to small sample sizes, these observations suggest that a 4-H STEM fitness, nutrition, and garden program may improve behaviors, attitudes, and practices towards healthy food choices and exercise. To further delineate these findings, additional youth are being recruited from additional sites to participate in the intervention and assessment.
Publications
- Type:
Other
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Taylor U.R., Rodriguez N.R., Cutz C., Castro L., Mogensen S., Padgett W.C., Siembida E.J, Farrell A.F. R. Connecticut Fitness and Nutrition Clubs In Motion: Prevention of Childhood Obesity via 4-H STEM Clubs in Urban Communities. San Diego, CA (2016)
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Progress 09/01/14 to 08/31/15
Outputs
Target Audience: The primary audiences are third and fourth graders from Meriden, Danbury and Willimantic, CT. According to the US Census QuickFacts (2014 Estimates), the population is 60,456 people (Meriden), 83,684 (Danbury), and 17,737 (Willimantic). Other respective data is as follows: Hispanic/Latino 30% and 25% and 40%, Black 13% and 7% and 8%, Asian 2% and 7% and2%; persons below poverty level 14% and 11% and 30%. The CT Strategic School Profile (2012-2013) forRoger Sherman (Meriden), Morris Street and Shelter Rock (Danbury) and Sweeny School (Windham) reveal ranges as follows: total minority student population 65 to 80%; Hispanic/Latino 45 to 69%; Black 5 to 8%; Asian4 to 10%.Students eligible for free/reduced price meals is 76% for Roger Sherman School, 79% for Morris Street School, 52% for Shelter Rock School, and 83% for Sweeney School. Non-English home language is 30% for Roger Sherman (10 non-English home languages), 65% for Morris Street School (10 non-English home languages), 52% Shelter Rock School (13 non-English home languages), and 45% for Sweeney (7 non-English home languages).Achievement of reaching the health standard for all four physical fitness tests (flexibility, abdominal strength, endurance, upper-body strength and aerobic endurance) is 23% for Roger Sherman, 36% for Morris Street School, 52% for Shelter Rock School, and 49% for Sweeney School. Teenagers were recruited from the high schools in each respective site and were trained as 4-HTeen Mentors towork along with Adult 4-Hleaders to deliver nutrition, fitness and gardening lessons/hands-on activities, including the planning and planting of vegetables, fruits and herb plants at each site. Families were also engaged in Family Nights,which includedfitness activities, food demonstrations and garden planting activities/demonstrations. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? In-services and workshop topics for 4-H Teen Mentors and 4-H Adult Leaders included: Department of Children and Families Mandated Reporter Training, CPR/AED/first aid training,Junior Master Gardener, work readiness, 4-H leadership, youth development/ages & stages, team building, diversity training, nutrition and food safety, public speaking & presentation skills, curriculum development/lesson planning, recipe preparation & food demonstration skills, and epi pen training (Adult Leaders only). How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Social media has been used to disseminate information to communities via the website, Facebook and Twitter. Social media trending via FaceBook, Twitter and Website reveals more new visitors, interest peaks in the fall and spring; 1,266 views and 52 sec average on page, including views from U.S., Mexico, Philippines, Colombia and India. Other presentations include health fairs, 4-H County Fairs, parent-teacher nights, family nights, as well as presentationsto legislators.Newsletters were also disseminated to families. CT Fitness and Nutrition ClubsIn Motion, Afterschool 4-H STEM curriculum pending live launchon a CMS (content management system) to be made available to community facilitators interested in implementing this program. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Maintain in-service training and supports for site leaders and 4-Hteen mentors Identify, recruit and train leaders andteens for next city site Continue to develop and expand website, social media reach, and video vignettes Continuetowards online launch of curriculum training platform Continue development and test evaluation software, SPSS systems and coding Initiate survey and measurement evaluations Continue weekly CT FANs IM year-round programming, garden site identification/planting, and summer session engagement Continue community outreach via health fairs, farmer's markets, etc. Engage other sites with distribution of raised garden beds Increase incremental steps for site sustainability for each continued site Replicate intervention model in new site
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
According to the2012 CT Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance Survey,almost one quarter of Connecticut children (24.6%) watched over two hours of television each day, while about 10% spent over two hours playing computer games, with higher rates for non-Hispanic blacks and Hispanic children; one in every six CT children was obese (16.8%) and nearly 1 in 7 was overweight (13.7%); Almost one-third (32.3%) of Connecticut children drank at least one Soda and Sugar Sweetened Beverage (SSB) per day in 2012, while 14.1% ate fast food at least twice per week. Urban schools and communities have been engaged in4-H STEM based afterschool and summer programsincluding the topic areas of nutrition, fitness and gardening. Youth and adult partnerships have been formulated with 4-H as the foundation. Students, families, teachers and community members participate in Family Nights to bring awareness to healthy living through food, fitness and garden demonstrations. Over 600 elementary students (3rd to 5th grade) will have been reached through Fitness Recess Breaks in which CT FANs IM Staff lead fun exercise and games during the school day. Youth participated in biweekly 4-H STEM afterschool sessions. Five schools and 4 community based partner sites have been supplied garden beds kits. 1. Major activities completed/experiments conducted: Evaluation for iPads fully integrated for nutrition, fitness and self-esteem surveys. In addition, PACER test was integrated into iPad format.Two-8 week studies completed attwo schoolsites. Garden Beds were designed, built and placed for Meriden, Danbury and Willimantic sites. Garden RibbonCutting Ceremony was heldin June, 2015 for Danbury; ThreeFamily Nightand Thirteen Recess sessions were held. Over 600 youth were reached and project about 50 to 100 during the summer sessions in three sites. Garden grounds wereprepared and planted this spring. 2. Data collected: There are approximately 21 youth enrolled in thestudy portion of the projecct.Preliminary assessment and analysis was completed. Conducted data collectionfor a small study portion at two sites. Twenty-one pre and post data sets for 8 weeks collected.Evaluation included questionnaires via iPads (topics about nutrition, fitness and eating habits). Physical data included fitness measures based on Presidential Fitness Tests, i.e. curl ups, pacer test, etc., as well as skinfolds, height and weight. 3. Summary statistics and discussion of results: Parents report that youth are asking for healthy foods and arereceptive to trying new foods. Students also wrote daily journals of their experience and discoveries in the school garden.Preliminary results were not significant due to small "N" for study portion and short period of time. Results did reveal there was increase in knowledge and behavior with eating habits (decrease in unhealthy foods) and students seemed to have a more accurate perception of their eating habits at the conclusion of the program; participants seemed to realize that their eating habits were not as healthy as they thought prior to the study. 4. Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized:Danbury is now being groomed for sustainability. Several sites in Meriden continue with garden beds with student-teacher involvement; One Meriden teacher continues to conduct 4-H garden based club after school and will continue with summer program and garden. Parents report that youth are asking for healthy foods, as well as report that their child is now teaching them (parent) what they have learned. Youth seem more comfortable and agile with Presidential Fitness measures as evidenced by observation. Interest has been generated by CT FANs IM at the school sites. Other youth who were in "programming only vs study" participants began asking if they could participate in the "study" (physical tests as well as iPad surveys). In addition, students who were not participating in the study or programnoticedthe activities ofthe CT FANs IM students andbegan asking staff how they could also participate in CT FANs IM.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2015
Citation:
Taylor U.R., Otero R., Castro L. Connecticut Fitness and Nutrition Clubs In Motion: Fitness and Nutrition via 4-H STEM. Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior. Pittsburgh, PA (2015)
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2012
Citation:
https://www.facebook.com/UConn4HFANsIM
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2012
Citation:
http://4-hfans.uconn.edu/
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Progress 09/01/13 to 08/31/14
Outputs
Target Audience: The primary audiences are third and fourth graders from Roger Sherman School in Meriden, CT and Morris Street School in Danbury, CT. According to the 2012 US Census QuickFacts, the population is 60,000 people and 82,000 for Meriden and Danbury respectively. Other respective data is as follows: Hispanic/Latino 29% and 25%, Black 10% and 7%, Asian 2% and 7%, persons below poverty level 15% and 10%. The CT Strategic School Profile (2011-2012) for Roger Sherman School and Morris Street School reveal as respectively as follows: total minority student population 75% and 79% ; Hispanic/Latino 58% and 64%; Black 11% and 8%, Asian 3% and 4%. Students eligible for free/reduced price meals is 76% for Roger Sherman School and 83% for Morris Street School. Non English Home language is 30% for Roger Sherman and 65% for Morris Street School; both schools have 9 non-English home languages. Achievement of reaching the health standard for all four physical fitness tests (flexibility, abdominal strength and endurance, upper-body strength and aerobic endurance) is 35% for Roger Sherman and 21% for Morris Street School. Teenagers were recruited from the high schools in each respective site and were trained as 4-H Leaders to work along with adult leaders to deliver nutrition, fitness and gardening lessons/hands on activities, including the planning and planting of vegetables, fruits and herb plants at each site. Families were also engaged to participate Family Nights, including fitness activites, food demonstrations and garden planting activities/demonstrations. Changes/Problems: IRB finalization was delayed. Physical Measuresthat were proposed as a subset was removed due to invasivenature or not approved by IRB. The IRB is now approved. There were also significant winter weather incidents that interfered with the start up of the new site (Danbury). In addition, the school had significant construction delays that detained all afterschool programming. In school fitness sessions have now begun. The garden site will be initated at an alternative site for this summer. Recruitment will occur for spring and the intervention program will occur in the summer for Danbury Site.Two of the Co-Pis decided not to continue with the project. A new co-Piwill starton the project and analysis will be done with an applied researchcenter of the University. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? In-services and workshop topics for 4-H Teen leaders and 4-H adult leaders included: CPR/AED and First Aid Training, Junior Master Gardener, Work Readiness, 4-H leadership, Youth development/ages & stages, team building, diversity training, nutrition and food safety, public speaking & presentation skills, curriculum development/lesson planning, recipe preparation & food demonstration skills; Department of Children and Families-reporting; Two 4-H Teen leaders participated in CT 4-H Citizenship Day at the State Capitol. Project staff have paticipated inworkshops/seminars/webinars on Obesity,Communicating withand TeachingLatino Audiences, MyPlate and Social Media/Technology, PREZI. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Social media has been used to dissemate to communities. Social Media trending via FaceBook, Twitter and Website reveals more new visitors, interest peaks in the fall and spring; 1,266 views and 52 sec average on page, including views from U.S., Mexico, Philippines, Colombia and India. Newspaper articles and interviews for local newspapers, newsletters to parents and students, presentations for community partner groups and community health fairs, localfarmer's markets, and University presentatons for Provost and agro-economic undergraduate class, interview for University Outreach Journal. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Maintain in service training and supports for site leaders, monitors and teens Identify, recruit and train leaders, monitors and teens for next City site Continue to develop and expand website and social media reach, and video vignettes Continue and launch online curriculum training platform; CT Fitness and Nutrition Clubs in Motion, an Afterschool STEM program ready to be placed in a CMS (content management system) to be made available to facilitators interested in implementing this program. Continue development and test evaluation software, SPSS systems, coding Initiate survey and measurement evaluations Continue weekly CT FANs IM year round programming and garden site identification and planting , summer session engagement Continue community outreach via health fairs, farmer’s markets, etc. Engage other sites with distribution of raised garden beds Increase incremental steps for site sustainability for each continued site Replicate intervention model in new site
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
According to the 2012 CT Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance Survey, almost one quarter of Connecticut children (24.6%) watched over two hours of television each day, while about 10% spent over two hours playing computer games, with higher rates for non-Hispanic blacks and Hispanic children; one in every six CT children was obese (16.8%) and nearly 1 in 7 was overweight (13.7%); Almost one-third (32.3%) of Connecticut children drank at least one Soda and Sugar Sweetened Beverage (SSB) per day in 2012, while 14.1% ate fast food at least twice per week. Urban schools and communities have been engaged 4-H STEM based afterschool and wrap around including the topic areas of nutrition, fitness and gardening. Youth and adult partnerships have been formulated with 4-H as the foundation. Students, families, teachers and community members participate in Family Nights to bring awareness to healthy living through food, fitness and garden demonstrations. Over 100 elementary students (3rd to 5th grade) have been reached through Fitness Recess breaks in which CT FANs IM Staff lead fun exercise and games during the school day. Twenty five youth participated in biweekly 4-H STEM afterschool sessions. Over 40 garden beds have been designed and placed at schools sites for onsite school gardens. Parents have reported increased interest and requests by their children for healthy foods and have tried new foods that were never tried before. The research objective is to increase knowledge, skills and attitudes about nutrition/physical activity; to increase improvements of health and self esteem indicators. 1) Major activities completed / experiments conducted; Surveys have been identified and translated into Spanish. Surveys set up in SPSS system for coding. 2) Data collected; No data was collected due to school site delay in startup based on winter weather conditions resulting in school closings and school site construction. Data will be collected during Summer Session.3) Summary statistics and discussion of results – N/A 4) Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized N/A The extension objectives are to increase the consumption of fruits, vegetables and whole grains; increase physical activity and active play; to increase family purchase and consumption of fruits and vegetables by incorporating student/family planting/maintaining/harvesting crops in a community garden. 1) Major activities completed / experiments conducted-Activities: Garden Beds were designed, built and placed for Meriden and Danbury sites. Eight garden beds constructed and placed and two barrel sized planters at Roger Sherman School in Meriden and 5 to 6 garden beds for Danbury. Thirty-five garden bed kits were constructed and distributed to four partner elementary schools in Meriden and garden kits will be placed at several community sites in Danbury. Events: Health Fairs and Sessions- In Meriden: PLAY 60 Childhood Obesity Prevention, July 2013; Family Fun Day, June, 2013; Family Wellness Fair, May 2013; Garden Grand Opening Event, July, 2013; Five Recess Break sessions (Feb, 2014) for 176 students at Roger Sherman school; Meriden Spring CT FANs IM session engaged 25 participants for 12 afterschool sessions; Spring, 2013 Meriden CT FANs IM 4-H members and teachers presented program overview to Board of Education members. Three Family Nights at Roger Sherman School; Garden Planting Event, May 2014 engaging Meriden and Danbury 4-H teen leaders with students and staff at Roger Sherman School to prepare and plant vegetables and herbs in garden beds. In Danbury: Seven Recess Break Sessions and 3 Family Night Sessions at Morris Street School; Teens conducted nutrition education and fitness sessions for ten 5th graders at community partner afterschool program. Garden grounds will be prepared and planted this spring. Garden Grand Opening event, Summer Session (8 weeks, upcoming summer 2014). 2) Data collected- no data collection; anecdotal data and observational data. Parents report that youth are asking for healthy foods and groceries, are open to trying new foods never tried before. Student also wrote daily journals of their experience and discoveries in the school garden.3) Summary statistics and discussion of results – no statistics at this time 4) Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized.- Roger Sherman School is now being groomed for sustainability. Roger Sherman School was recently chosen by the City of Meriden to become an “Extended Learning” School Site. CT FANs IM will be incorporated into the ELT healthy living and science enrichment. School administrators note the public speaking abilities and confidence of the CT FANs IM students. Students presented their CT FANs IM project experience at a Board of Education meeting.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Poster Session, Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior, Milwalkee, Wisconsin
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
CT FANs IM Teaches Fitness and Nutrition With Fun, Highlights of Research and the Storrs Agricultural Experiment Station, UConn CANR, 2013
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Progress 09/01/12 to 08/31/13
Outputs
Target Audience: Third and fourth graders from Roger Sherman school in Meriden, CT are the primary target audience. Meriden is a population of 60,000 people. The U.S. Census for this community vs the state of Connecticut respectively is 29 % Hispanic (13%) , 10% Black (10%), persons below poverty level 15% (9.5%). The community has 19% of its member that have a 12th grade education or less and 11 % receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Benefits. According to the CT Strategic School Profile 2010 to 2011, total minority population of students 64% ( 47 % of students are Hispanic/Latino, 35% are White, 13 % are Black, 1% are Multicutural. Students eligible for free and reduced lunch is 67% vs the state of Connecticut (34%). Nineteen percent of Meriden student households have non English home language. Twenty-nine percent of Meriden students reached health standards on all four Presidental Fitness tests vs the state (51%). Roger Sherman is a reflection of the diversity of the community (74% minority and 57% Hispanic). Roger Sherman School is connected with many community providers and also have a partially funded Family Resource Center. Teenagers were recruited from two Meriden High Schools. These teens were enrolled and trained as 4-H teen mentors. Secondary audiences also include the families of the students who participate in Family Nutrition and Fitness Nights and teachers at Roger Sherman School who were recruited and trained as 4-H leaders. Efforts for delivery of science based knowledge to the Meriden community inlcuded Family Fitness and Nutrition Nights, Health and Wellness Family Fairs, 4-H STEM After School and school garden. Teen mentor and adult leaders as well as hired CT Fitness and Nutrition Program staff were trained in 4-H leadership. Workshops included a University Outreach Symposium, a Kick off Celebration, and Community and School Wellness Fairs and Exercise and Healthy Food Demonstrations. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? 4-H Teen facilitators have participated in curriculum training for CT FANS IM Integrated JMG Curriculum. Teens were also trained in fitness, nutrition, gardening, food safety, work-readiness, childhood development, technology, team work development, diversity/empathy and public speaking/presentation skills and citizenship. 4-H Adult leaders who will eventually sustain the school garden have received intense curriculum training with the Master Gardener for New Haven County. Staff and leaders were trained in CPR/First Aide. Staff and graduate students are trained in responsible and ethical research- CITI trained (Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative) and trained in Human Rights and Abuse (DCF). Staff and faculty have participated in various webinars: social media, engaging Latino audiences, integration of sustainability and sustainable living principles in extension programming. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Results have been disseminated via power point presentations at University Outreach symposiums. A poster session of results will be presented at a nutrition conference. 4-H Teen mentors will presentCT FANS IM as a project at the New Haven and Middlesex County 4-H Fair. 4-H Teen mentors have discussed CT FANs IM with Connecticut legislators at the 4-H Citizenship Day at the Capital. CT FANs IM faculty and staff also presented power point at University of Connecticut Outreach Symposium to faculty, staff,students and affiliates. Results are also disseminated via Newspapers, Social Media Resources and the CT FANS IM website. Participating youth and families utilize the website to compliment their involvement in the program. Along with program information and success stories, the website offers links to nutrition and fitness sites, including educational interactive games for youth. As part of the social media program, the 4-H FANs Facebook page provides updated program highlights and photos, in addition to timely fitness and nutrition reminders. Additional social media sites are planned to expand the program outreach within the community and state. Website hits included 406 page views and 52% new visits fromUS, Canada and Taiwan. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Maintain in service training and supports for pilot site leaders, monitors and teens Identify, recruit and train leaders, monitors at teens in next City site Refine Integrated Fitness/Nutrition/ Jr. Master Gardener curriculum Continue to develop and expand website and Social Media reach Develop and test evaluation software (there was a delay in getting funding transferred to subcontractor so timelines were delayed in development and testing; subcontractor agreement will be initiated on time therefore development and testing will be conducted during this period with pilot and new site. Continue with the translation of evaluation data and surveys to iPad technology platforms. Continue weekly CT FANs IM 4-H Afterschool wrapping around to Summer sessions for pilot site Engage other sites with distribution of raised garden beds Engage pilot site and new site participants with evaluation instruments and measures (there were delays in staff hiring process in addition to longer than anticipated approval of evaluation procedures; core staff are now in place; evaluation procedures are in process) Increase incremental steps for sustainability for pilot site Replicate intervention model in new site
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
1. Major activities completed. A successful “Kick off Program” to introduce CT FANS IM 4-H Afterschool Program was held. Over 200 people, including students, teachers, parents and local/state/national dignitaries appointed and elected officials. Three Family Fitness and Nutrition Nights have been conducted. During these events, families were engaged with chef led food demonstrations, exercise boot camps, Zumba dancing and exergames (Wii Dance). The community was engaged with four health/wellness events held at 2 school sites and 2 community park spaces; topics included nutrition, exercise/hydration, and gardening. Two “exercise recess” sessions were conducted during the school day, in which approximately 160 third and fourth graders and their teachers participated in concurrent groups of Wii Dance and Boot Camp. In addition, sixteen 4-H STEM After school sessions have been conducted at Roger Sherman School. Students have been introduced to healthy foods and exercise during weekly CT FANS sessions (twice a week), Family Nights and health fairs. 2. Specific objectives met. Research - Protocols for evaluation and survey instruments/measures were developed and will be implemented in July and August. Protocols for implementation of behavioral measures were developed and will be implemented in July and August. Timeline - 1/01/13 to 06/31/13-develop evaluation software. Progress has begun with the translation of evaluation data and surveys to iPad technology platforms. Extension - Youth and families have been introduced to healthy foods via Chef-led food demonstrations for students and families at Family Fun Nights. Families and students have also participated in exergames (Wii Dance), salsa dancing, and boot camp circuit training. Youth and 4-H Teen mentors planted seeds and plants in school community garden on the school site. Timeline: 03/01/13 to 06/30/13 - 4-H Fitness and Nutrition Clubs (FANs) In Motion (IM) meet weekly and prepare for summer gardening program; Third and fourth graders were recruited and enrolled as Special Interest 4-H STEM Club. Students and families have been engaged in CT FANs IM 4-H STEM Afterschool weekly (Tuesdays and Wednesdays); one afternoon is dedicated to fitness and nutrition activities, and healthy food demonstrations; the other afternoon session consists of garden activities and healthy snack demonstrations. Eight raised beds were constructed and six more will be completed for a total of fourteen raised beds. Youth and 4-H Teen facilitators planted a variety of vegetables, fruit and herbs. 09/01/12 to 02/28/13-Identify and train program staff, intervention/pilot site leaders/monitors, and teen mentors -One Program Administrator, one Program Assistant,and part time public service specialists have been recruited, hired and trained. Also four teen mentors and four adult leaders (teachers) have been recruited and trained. Consultants were recruited and trained to deliver services (exercise leaders, chefs, translator). The manual to integrate Fitness/Nutrition and Jr. Master Gardener (JMG) curriculum & leader's guide was compiled. Website and social media outlets were established and expanded to link to CT 4-H, JMG and Community Partners. 06/01/13- Award Community Engagement Mini Grants - Mini grants will be instituted andraised garden beds are in process of construction to place at upcoming community sites. Garden materials will also be supplied to those sites. 06/01/13 to 08/31/13 -4-H FANs IM clubs and families plant, maintain and harvest summer garden.4-H youth and teen mentors have planted seedlings and young plants in the raised garden beds. The summer program will begin in July though end of August 22nd ; 4-H youth and their families will be engaged in active participation and hands on demonstrations with 4-H teen mentors, 4-H adult leaders and Master Gardeners. 3. significant results achieved. Due to unforeseen circumstances with start up of programming in schools and delays in IRB approval of research guidelines, evaluation and surveys were not initiated in the Spring.Evaluation questionnaires and surveys will be initiated this summer. Nutrition and fitness education and demonstrations will be conducted twice a week during the summer months. Families of youth will be invited to participate in summer garden activities and demonstrations. School garden was designed in conjunction with Master Gardener. Raised gardens were constructed and placed at school site. Soil and plants were transferred to the raised beds. The 4-H Coordinator guided the City of Meriden Mayor’s assistant in the application process as a “Let’s Move City”. The City was accepted and designated as a Let’s Move City; as a result, Meriden now has a website as a Let’s Move City via National League of Cities. The Mayor and his assistant were invited toSpecial Let’s Move Ceremony in Boston. 4. Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized. The growing enthusiasm for the CT FANs IM program at Roger Sherman School is evidenced by the increase in participation in the family nights (started with 2 families vs. 22 families); Likewise, the STEM After school program census has increased by 60 %. Observational Data as evidenced by Program Administrator and Program Assistant: A parent of the afterschool children expressed her excitement about the program and is making an effort to spend more time in the kitchen with her family. As we waited for the raised gardens to be installed, the afterschool children could not contain their excitement and eagerness to begin working in the garden. The school community (students and teachers) is expressing their excitement for the growing program to the adult leaders (teachers). The adult leaders (teachers) are excited to see the children moving, excited and truly interested in the afterschool program activities. During the initial gardening of the seedlings with the after school program, the children became excited over the future progress of the garden and harvesting their crops. The 4-H adult leaders (teachers) and program staff are very impressed with the leadership rapport the teen facilitators have established with the youth, in addition to the ability to facilitate the program while keeping the youth engaged and excited.
Publications
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
CT Fitness and Nutrition and Fitness IM (4-hfans.uconn.edu)
- Type:
Other
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
CT Fitness and Nutrition Clubs In Motion, poster session, Society for Nutrition Education, Portland, OR
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