There is a lot of information on the Web - how do you know what is accurate? Use these resources for researched-based nutrition education materials for kids to help with 4-H projects or just plain FUN!

MyPyramid for Kids from the USDA

"Teachers can easily teach MyPyramid for Kids by using the classroom materials, including lesson plans, an interactive game, and a MyPyramid for Kids Poster. The nutrition and physical activity messages included throughout the materials are designed to help children 6 to 11 years old make healthy eating and physical activity choices. "

"MyPyramid materials available from Team Nutrition for middle and high school students consist of the MyPyramid poster and mini-poster and the handout, Anatomy of MyPyramid." (Source: www.mypyramid.gov/kids from the USDA)

KidsHealth for Kids!

Kidshealth.org has lots for kids to learn about health, nutrition, and well-being in a fun and interactive way!

Kids a Cookin'

Explore Kids a Cookin' from Kansas State University Extension where "Cooking is Fun". Kids a Cookin' shares with children the fun and skills of cooking.

Mealtime Manners!

The following guide is a basic set of traditional rules for setting the table. Different cultures follow different rules for table etiquette – ask for clarification, if needed. This traditional example can be used in a formal as well as an informal setting. To set the table, the 4-H’er needs a “place setting” for each person. Table setting contests will commonly require at least one table setting on display - check the county for specific details. Not all counties have this contest. Please check with your local Extension office.

Food Science

What is Food Science? Food Science is the discovery of:

• MyPyramid
• Learning how ingredients react with each other when exposed to different temperature ranges.
• Making predictions as to how recipes may turn out with different ingredient or mixing techniques.
• Understanding how food production is impacted by the science of agriculture.
• Using the five senses with sensory exploration.
• Food Science can always provide a chance for kids to guess what might happen when they do their project and gives them a chance to analyze the results and experiment with varying ingredients.

Explore simple experiments and activities that Penn State University has to offer for food science!

Iowa State University's Welcome to the Fabulous, Fascinating (& sometimes FREAKY) World of Food, for K - 8th graders. These experiments are meant to have some adult supervision. Elementary and pre-school age youth will require an adult present, but all ages will enjoy the results!

Explore eXtension for objective, research-based and credible information you can use every day to improve your life! There are lots of resource areas to choose from for communities, families, and youth, as well as many related to agriculture. Look at some of the terrific ideas under Food, Families, and Fitness for some fune with your 4-H'ers and your family!