Thank you to everyone who helped to make JLFC Kids in the Kitchen 2010 a success!

The Junior Leagues’ Kids in the Kitchen program focuses on teaching children healthy eating habits and the importance of exercise. It is an initiative begun by Junior Leagues International to help combat the growing epidemic of childhood obesity. The need to impart this information is already apparent to leaders in healthcare and is increasingly gaining attention in the media. This is a result of the alarming statistics related to the percentages of overweight and obese children and adolescents in the United States. These children have increased chances of developing health problems such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Although in 2007, Colorado’s obesity rate was < 20% (one of the leanest in the country), obesity rates, including childhood obesity rates, continue to rise. The Colorado’s Children Campaign estimated that 29% of children are overweight or at risk for being overweight. It is also estimated that if the trend continues, by 2020, 76% or Coloradoans will be overweight or obese.

Last April, the Junior League of Fort Collins hosted an interactive, educational program designed to teach children the basics of nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. Eighty children participated. Activities included interactive lecture, games, and exercise. Participants also prepared healthy snacks and lunches and had a chance to visit with Slapshot, the mascot from the Colorado Eagles.

Thanks to our 2010 Kids in the Kitchen Sponsors:

• Chipper's Lanes
• City of Fort Collins Recreation Department
• The Cupboard
• Leprino Foods of Denver
• The Nutrition Center at CSU
• Panera Bread
• Peleton Cycles
• Poudre Valley Health System Healthy Kids Club
• Recycled Cycles
• Rollerland
• Target
• Walmart
  

Click here to visit the official Kids in the Kitchen web site!
The Junior Leagues’ Kids in the Kitchen website, which includes a virtual recipe collection from celebrity chefs, local restaurateurs, celebrity moms and nutrition experts, is designed to teach young children healthy eating habits at an early age. These recipes are available in electronic and downloadable formats and are coupled with important nutrition and fitness tips to guide children to a healthier lifestyle.