Making a Difference - Research-based programs get results

Kid Curator
This early childhood project encourages preschoolers to think scientifically and ecologically through learning activities in the MSU 4-H Children’s Garden. It is a pioneer approach to teaching science and environmental stewardship through immersion field trips, a partnership with Head Start teachers and the development of a companion web site and CD-ROM.

Recreation for All
Studies have shown that recreation and informal leisure activities are important for youth socialization and community involvement. The Recreation for All project based in Kalamazoo is researching the best ways to include special needs youth in community activities. Local schools, businesses, and the parks department are working together to offer recreation activities for both disabled and non-disabled middle school youth.

Osteo-CHAMPS
An innovative research-based program called Osteo-CHAMPS (Careers in Health And Medicine Program) is attempting to increase cultural diversity in osteopathic medicine. As part of an overall effort to reduce racial inequality in the health sciences, this program mentors and recruits underrepresented minority high school students into college and osteopathic medical careers.

Nutrition Education Aimed at Toddlers (NEAT)
Research has shown that good eating habits established in early childhood can lead to a lifetime of good health and nutrition. MSU faculty and Extension staff are expanding this research-based nutrition education program to 23 Michigan counties to help parents of toddlers make healthy food choices.

Eat Breakfast
Eat Healthy, Eat Breakfast is a social marketing and behavior change campaign to increase breakfast eating among kids ages 11-15. A pilot study in Clinton, Ingham, and Eaton Counties in 2001 showed a 12% increase in consumption of breakfast among 11-15 year olds, and 74% awareness in the target populations. The project received honors at the USDA’s Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services (FNS) National Nutrition Education Conference this February. Campaign kits, which include intervention ideas, support materials and resources are available statewide to help communities promote healthy eating habits: www.mnn.fcs.msue.msu.edu/EHEB.html.

Watch for updates on these and other research projects at www.fact.msu.edu