Our Model
KIN’s 1st/2nd-grade nutrition curriculum provides a foundation for nutrition and healthful dietary change, while the 5th-grade food sustainability curriculum educates about the link between our food system and environmental health.
Teams of five volunteer university student instructors visit local elementary classrooms (in-person or virtually) to teach once a week for seven weeks. We explore a new topic each week, engaging elementary students with interactive visuals, hands-on games, physical activity, outdoor play, and group discussions. Lessons are evidence-based and align with state education standards.
Our university-to-elementary student mentorship exerts a powerful influence on behavior change by making nutrition and sustainability topics relevant and engaging. During the first lesson, five elementary students are paired with one university student volunteer to form a "KIN group." For the duration of the program, KIN groups participate in activities that build strong kinship, creating a fun association with healthy behaviors. Our peer-to-peer mentorship is an effective behavior change model, as each volunteer instructor leaves a lasting impression.
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COVID-19
To accommodate learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, KIN has adapted its curricula to virtual instruction. This includes a combination of engaging powerpoints and Zoom discussions led by volunteer KINstructors and supervised by classroom teachers. We had successful remote programming in 2020 and will continue to have this option in addition to in-person moving forward [See weekly challenges on our KINcentive page.]
“Kids In Nutrition is like a spelling class: the letters and words are the elements children use to choose their words wisely and express themselves fully. In this case, they are learning the building blocks of what feeds their bodies and minds so they can express this knowledge through cooking and eating habits that empower them to thrive. KIN delivers a brilliant service for children. It’s taught with high energy, dedication, and heart. It should be considered a Common Core class.”
- Eric Pomert, Certified Natural Chef
Curricula Resources
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