- Author: Nancy Zumkeller
- Editor: Emily Harris
Healthy food and fun physical activity was on the menu for Anthony preschool students and their families. Mrs. Ojeda's AM and PM classes joined together with the UC CalFresh Nutrition Education team for a morning of exercise through the MyPlate Obstacle Course on May 10th. Students gained reinforcement of the messages they have learned all year about the MyPlate model and shared that knowledge with their families. Everyone worked together through 6 stations, such as the Fruit Hoops Bean Bag Toss, the Dairy Dunes Hurdles, and the Vegetable Vertical Climbers, to name a few. Connecting physical activity to the classroom messages about the importance of MyPlate gave these preschoolers a memorable and fun experience that was shared with their parents and younger siblings. Mrs. Ojeda stated that everyone was so excited for this event that parents brought healthy snacks for a healthy party in the classroom after the obstacle course. 
The UC CalFresh Fruits and Vegetables were the local celebrities on campus as many preschoolers wanted their individual photo taken with them!
UC CalFresh Nutrition Educator, Hannah Lee, takes a water break with her group at the Hydration Station, where she reads them a story about the importance of drinking water.
The Whole Grain Hops had students practicing their motor skills.
The Dairy Dunes Hurdles had students jumping for joy!
Parents and students build muscle with the Protein Parachute!
Anthony Preschool families gather for a group photo after a morning of physical activity before heading into the classroom to share some healthy snacks!
This event provided families with first-hand experience on how simple exercises done together can not only be fun, but instill positive exercise habits for their young students. Mrs. Ojeda's wish is to make this a yearly event for her preschoolers and possibly for all preschoolers throughout Fresno Unified School District.
- Author: Nora Rey Lopez
- Photographer: Yolanda S. Lopez
During my recent visit to the Children's Corner preschool in Firebaugh I received a surprise!!! They were working on their new garden! According to Christy Trujillo, they received funding through a garden grant from Fresno City College. They were one of the five sites chosen. I am so proud of them!
"It has been a great experience for the children and teachers", says Christy.
The children and teachers are growing pumpkins, watermelons, strawberries, carrots, sweet peppers and tomatoes. Soon Children's Corner students will be tasting fresh and delicious vegetables and fruits.
What plant part is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below.
- Author: Alisha Byrd
It's lunch time at Barbin's Little Tykes Daycare Center!
Kids often don't know what's best for their health, and would rather snack on 'sometimes' food than the nutritious foods you know they need. At Barbin's daycare center they understand that changes will not happen immediately, and know consistency is key in getting your little one to make the switch to healthier options. The UC CalFresh Nutrition Education Program supports teachers' efforts to encourage healthy choices during meal time.
For tips on feeding young children, please click here.
- Author: Alisha Byrd
Watching plants grow is fun and educational experience for children. Their enormous curiosity and excitement over anything new makes them naturals for gardening. Growing plant seeds with kids teaches them how nature works, responsibility in caring for something, and pride in themselves for the results.
Learn more about gardening in the classroom here.
- Author: Kristi Noel Schultz-Sharp
Preschoolers in Andrea Wall's classes learn how to write and sort using, my personal favorite, FRUITS and VEGETABLES. It's amazing how 4 and 5 year old's can learn so much in one school year. Keep up the great work Wishon Preschool!
