Recently, two Superior Head Start staff members, Teacher-PIC Teresita Martinez-Olmos and Site Manager Hilda Cardenas completed the University of Arizona (U. of A.) Extension Food Nutrition Education Program. Joining them were relatives of some of the students, Minnie Apodoca, a parent, and Rosie Martinez and Mabel Cox, grandparents.
. Each month, Esmeralda Castillo, Home Living Assistant and Candy Rodriquez presented information and activities, and, provided free samples of nutritious snacks, such as vanilla yogurt with fruit and granola or hot air popped popcorn with ranch seasoning, during the training session at Superior Head Start LPC meetings.
The participants were asked to complete a pre and post survey. Participants answered questions about food and nutrition during the program. One activity included the Head Start students, along with grandparents and parents exercising with a ball inside the Head Start classroom. It provided exercise, fun and laughter throughout the activity.
Each month participants were given information concerning nutrition, smart food shopping & exercise ideas for healthy living. The participants who completed the course were each presented a certificate along with a “sandwich” box food container gift. Head Start is a grant funded program under the Department of Health and Human Services.