This week, students at Randolph House Summer Micro School put on their chef hats and became Food Safety Detectives during the first lesson of Camp Cook Play, a six-lesson hands-on nutrition and cooking series provided through EFNEP (Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program).

EFNEP is a federally funded, research-based nutrition education program through NC Cooperative Extension that helps youth and families build lifelong skills in healthy eating, food safety, cooking, and physical activity.

Before creating their snack, students learned the importance of the Fight BAC!™ food safety messages—Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill. They practiced proper handwashing and used a special glow light activity to see how germs can hide on our hands and why careful handwashing is one of the most important kitchen skills.

Students also explored the MyPlate food groups and discovered how different foods work together to help our bodies grow, move, and stay healthy. They then created their own Food Group Funny Faces using foods from all five food groups while practicing safe food handling, following directions, and expressing their creativity in the kitchen.

Food Groups Included

Grains – Whole grain English muffin and cereal Dairy – Yogurt Fruits – Banana and raisins Vegetables – Carrots Protein – Peanut butterThe smiles, creativity, and excitement around trying new foods made this a delicious and successful first lesson!This summer, Mrs. Angie is excited to share the Camp Cook Play series not only with Randolph House Summer Micro School, but also with youth participating in 4-H programs, Brunswick County Parks and Recreation’s Camp Brunswick, and STARS Literacy at Seaside United Methodist Church. Stay tuned for more fun pictures, hands-on activities, and healthy recipes as campers across Brunswick County explore the world of nutrition, cooking, and movement together!CLICK HERE for the Food Group Funny Face recipe adapted from the Camp Cook Play curriculum.

EFNEP is Not Just for Kids!

While Camp Cook Play helps youth build confidence in the kitchen and learn healthy habits, EFNEP offers programs for adults too! The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) provides FREE hands-on nutrition education for eligible families with children living in the home.Adult participants can learn how to:

• Prepare healthy meals on a budget
• Plan meals and grocery shop wisely
• Read food labels and make healthier choices
• Practice safe food handling and preparation
• Increase physical activity and build healthy habits

Classes are offered in a variety of formats to fit busy family schedules, including small groups and one-on-one options.For more information about EFNEP programs in Brunswick County or to see if you qualify, contact Mrs. Angie Lawrence with NC Cooperative Extension – Brunswick County at 910-253-2610, angie_lawrence@ncsu.edu or visit the Brunswick County Center.