Kids learn about the benefit of eating healthy foods

ISHPEMING — When it comes to snacking, getting kids to eat something healthy can be a challenge.

Wednesday morning, students at Ishpeming Middle School were introduced to a couple of snacks that feature nothing but healthy items. The cooking and eating demonstration was all part of a grant from the Superior Health Foundation and Project Healthy Schools.

Project Healthy Schools is a program at the University of Michigan that promotes building healthy communities through health and wellness programs, like exercising and eating healthy, nutritious foods.
Students were able to try a fruit pizza, hummus, smoothies and a variety of fruits and veggies.

“Kids need to be introduced to things and that’s one of the goals here is to do some of these health initiatives,” said Jean DuRussel-Weston, manager for Project Healthy Schools. “Thus, we try to offer them the opportunity to practice this and try some things they might not use.”

“This is the kind of thing I really look forward to,” said Calvin Attwell, food service director at Ishpeming & Negaunee Public Schools. “Every day watching the kids come through the lunch line, seeing what they eat, just encouraging them to try new foods that they normally wouldn’t try.”

Kids and teens that eat the daily recommended amount of fruits and vegetables can help prevent chronic health problems, like high blood pressure, heart disease and prevent obesity.