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Ashley Hayes Reporting One local organization is stepping up its initiative to educate children about how to eat right. Salt Lake City's Junior League is working hard to make the learning process fun.
They are still finalizing plans. But for Junior League's big event next week, organizers are hoping Olympic speed skaters Derek Parra or Eric Heiden will make an appearance.
Next Monday, 200 elementary school students are invited to Murray High School for the league's second annual "Kids in the Kitchen" event. Dozens of chefs, bakers, and nutritionists will take the kids through various food preparations and help the kids learn how to make better food choices.
Becky Carter of Junior League Salt Lake City said, "It's surprising because we would think they would like the sweets more. When we actually work with the children they're eager and interested in the healthy food."
The League believes it is important for children to learn about nutrition early on. Nationally, one third of children are overweight or at risk of becoming overweight. Among the health problems the league also would like to see children avoid are those dealing with self-esteem and relationship building.
Parents can get involved by going to the Junior League Web site. Online there are recipes and information on how to introduce kids to the kitchen at your home.
"My kids love cooking," Carter said, "and I have a 2-year-old up on the counter with me. I know many moms [that say] 'Oh, she needs to get down.' But she's quite comfortable up there, and she'll toddle around and bring me all the spices she needs. She knows cinnamon. She can pick that one out."
The League wants to expand its initiative next year to include more school districts.
