Healthy Happens Here- A Wellness Program to Support Oral Health, Nutrition and Physical Activity, in an Elementary School
Abstract
Dental caries and childhood obesity remain a national public health concern in the United States. Poor dietary practices, including low consumption of fruits and vegetables and high consumption of sugary drinks increase the risk of dental caries and obesity in children. Healthy Happens Here is a cultural competence wellness program to support oral health, nutrition and physical activity, in an elementary school in Miami, FL. The three-month educational program was a collaboration between Nova Southeastern University, and the Horeb Christian School. Parents/Guardians were notified of the study via flyers posted at the school and with an informational letter sent via email. Those interested were asked to sign an informed consent form to participate in the study. Fifty parents participated in the program that included a one-hour face to face education on healthy lifestyle practices during scheduled afternoon school meetings. The topics included: sugary drinks and oral health, nutrition and oral health, and oral health and physical activity. Parents/Guardians of school-aged children (Kindergarten through 6th grade) participated in focus groups after the three sections. Parents' attitudes have a positive impact on the state of children's oral health; because the parents control tooth brushing and sugar consumption. Parents/ Guardians help children develop positive oral health habits.
Faculty Sponsors
Dr. Claudia Serna
Project Type
Event
Location
Alvin Sherman Library
Start Date
4-6-2021 12:00 PM
End Date
4-9-2021 12:00 PM
Healthy Happens Here- A Wellness Program to Support Oral Health, Nutrition and Physical Activity, in an Elementary School
Alvin Sherman Library
Dental caries and childhood obesity remain a national public health concern in the United States. Poor dietary practices, including low consumption of fruits and vegetables and high consumption of sugary drinks increase the risk of dental caries and obesity in children. Healthy Happens Here is a cultural competence wellness program to support oral health, nutrition and physical activity, in an elementary school in Miami, FL. The three-month educational program was a collaboration between Nova Southeastern University, and the Horeb Christian School. Parents/Guardians were notified of the study via flyers posted at the school and with an informational letter sent via email. Those interested were asked to sign an informed consent form to participate in the study. Fifty parents participated in the program that included a one-hour face to face education on healthy lifestyle practices during scheduled afternoon school meetings. The topics included: sugary drinks and oral health, nutrition and oral health, and oral health and physical activity. Parents/Guardians of school-aged children (Kindergarten through 6th grade) participated in focus groups after the three sections. Parents' attitudes have a positive impact on the state of children's oral health; because the parents control tooth brushing and sugar consumption. Parents/ Guardians help children develop positive oral health habits.
