Inspiring Kids to Eat Healthy All Year Long

Guest post by Mandy Kalin, Maine SNAP-Ed Nutrition Educator

It’s a brand-new year and Healthy Acadia’s school nutrition educators are in full swing with school-based program implementation.

Shannon Cherry and I joined the Healthy Acadia Nutrition Education team in the latter half of 2022 and serve schools and communities across Washington County. As we settle into our new roles, teaching some “now familiar” classes, and some “new to us” classes, it is clear that our role is very multilayered and dynamic. So much to learn and so much energy are packed into all of our endeavors!

As we expand our outreach in schools, we are thrilled to discover so many inspiring and encouraging activities are happening right under our noses! This month, the WinterKids program is taking place across the state, whereby children in participating schools are encouraged to engage in a myriad of health-promoting and fun indoor and outdoor winter activities in order to garner points for their school. We were thrilled to be invited to attend three events as guest demonstrators and share these fun and healthy recipes sure to keep these kiddos energized, enthusiastic, and coming back for more!

This Homemade Granola is an awesome source of whole grains, which we all need to stay full and fueled! And our DELICIOUS low fat, Vanilla-Berry Yogurt Parfaits (paired with above our granola), was a smashing hit, delivering all kinds of calcium, protein, and yum!

Healthy Acadia’s Maine SNAP-Ed Nutrition Educators offer year-round cooking and nutrition classes in partnership with schools and organizations throughout Hancock and Washington counties. To learn more or schedule a class, contact Mandy or Shannon in Washington County, and Isi or Lizzie in Hancock County.