The School Yard Kids: A Puppet Show to Promote a Healthful Lifestyle

Abstract

Background Recent national estimates found that 37.2% of school aged children (6-11 years old) have a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than the 85 th percentile for age and sex, and 18.8% of children have a BMI greater than the 95 th BMI percentile. 1 In New York City, these percentages are even higher, with 43% greater than the 85 th percentile and 19% greater than the 95 th percentile for BMI. 2 Mexican American and Non-Hispanic black children are more likely to fall into these categories than Non-Hispanic white children. 1 Interventions to promote healthy weight behaviors among children are greatly needed. Preventive health interventions such as observational learning and modeling can bring about a change in children's thought processes and behaviors. 3 Puppets are an imaginative and fun way of providing health information according to social cognitive and norming principles. Puppets have been used to educate children on a variety of topics such as HIV, first aid, hygiene, and fruit and vegetable intake. 4 The goal of this puppet show was to generate enthusiasm and promote dialogue about diet and physical activity.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behavior Concerning Nutrition and Physical Activity in Mexican Children

“…Even from early ages, there have already been changes. 39 According to the recommendations of the US Preventive Services Task Force, after 6 years of age, obese children should be referred to programs aimed at 429 changing behavior to improve their body weight; 6 however, the latter indicator is secondary, as it may not reflect a change in lifestyle. In Figure 2, the components of change in lifestyle and their relationships are illustrated.…”