The Effects of the Texas Learn, Grow, Eat, Go! Program and the Influence on Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behavior of Children Regarding Physical Activity, Nutrition, and Perception of Health

Abstract

Nutrition and physical activity has a major impact on the growth and development of children and therefore plays an important role in their lives. Proper nutrition includes the consumption of five fruits and vegetables a day. Physical activity is required for 60 minutes a day, and most of American youth are below that value. Therefore, education is needed in order to increase the consumption of fruits and vegetables and to increase physical activity in children.

The purpose of this study was to determine the level of knowledge about, perceptions of, and attitudes toward nutrition, physical activity knowledge, and perception of health. Thirty-two elementary schools, representing four geographical locations, each having four 3rd grade classrooms participated in the study from Fall 2012 to Spring 2013. Students’ nutritional knowledge and physical knowledge was measured using a pre and post survey method.

Statistically significant differences were found between pre and post scores of the knowledge section on both nutrition and physical activity, as well as perception of health. After completing the Texas Learn, Go! Eat! Grow! Program (LGEG) curriculum, students, regardless of age, ethnicity, and location had increased in knowledge about the benefits of eating fruits and vegetables, as well as the need for physical activity and perception of health.