In New Hampshire, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) is making a measurable difference in the lives of our youngest residents. The program uses evidence-based education to support SNAP-eligible families in making healthy choices. Through direct education, and policy, systems, and environmental changes, this program promotes health while creating strategies that support the prevention of nutrition-related chronic diseases that disproportionately impact lower-income individuals.
A recent pilot of the direct education program Healthy Me, Healthy Body (HMHB) at Concord Head Start shows the powerful impact of early nutrition and wellness education. Five HMHB lessons were implemented, reaching 22 preschool-aged children. The results speak volumes.
Teachers observed significant positive behavior changes among the children:
- 82% took more time eating and were more willing to try new foods.
- 68% increased their intake of fruits and vegetables.
- 32% became more physically active.
- 68% began practicing yoga regularly.
Beyond physical health, the program fostered emotional and social development, critical skills for making healthy choices:
- 55% of children improved in naming emotions.
- 50% used words to express their feelings.
- 41% expressed emotions more appropriately.
Remarkably, even without direct instruction, 77% of children engaged in quiet meditation or reflection, and 55% showed increased empathy, highlighting the holistic benefits of the program.
Caregivers also reported meaningful changes at home. Among 11 respondents:
- 55% saw their children practicing yoga.
- 45% observed them using words to express feelings and practicing quiet reflection.
- 36% noted improved emotional expression.
The take-home materials extended learning beyond the classroom. One caregiver shared, “We still have the handouts. They were useful and a way to have my child share what he learned. I saw him use yoga poses at home and outside the home in an appropriate setting.” Another noted, “The handouts go up on the fridge or around the house where they can be seen. My son points them out and we talk about what they say.”
Another direct education program piloted with Head Start sites throughout the state, Husky Reads, incorporates nutrition and physical activity into the classroom. In FY24, 88% of early childcare educators reported that children were more aware of nutrition after these lessons. Additionally, 80% of educators reported that children were more willing to try new foods. During the current fiscal year (as of March 2025), 187 preschool students have been reached through direct education lessons to support their overall health. Handouts, created by NH SNAP-Ed, are provided with each lesson to help parents understand what their children are learning and to encourage these healthy activities at home.
In addition to direct education efforts, 14 educators are integrating NH SNAP-Ed’s online nutrition education materials into their classroom instruction. These resources, specifically adapted for early childcare educators, help incorporate nutrition and physical activity into daily routines and foster young children’s interest in healthy eating.
During the past fiscal year, NH SNAP-Ed also expanded its focus on gardening programming at early childcare sites, notably supporting the development of a garden at the Concord Head Start location. This garden grows produce that directly supports the nutrition of children and families participating in the site’s programs.
We must promote healthy habits in early childhood if we want healthy adults. The program’s outcomes demonstrate the importance of starting healthy habits early. Preschool is a critical window for shaping lifelong behaviors. SNAP-Ed funding empowers educators and families with the tools to build a foundation of wellness, resilience, and emotional intelligence. Continued investment in SNAP-Ed represents more than a commitment to nutrition; it is a commitment to health, development, and the future of New Hampshire’s children.
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The University of New Hampshire Extension is an equal opportunity educator and employer. UNH, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and New Hampshire counties cooperating. Direct inquiries to unh.civilrights@unh.edu. USDA this institution is an equal opportunity provider. The preparation of this document was financed under a contract with the State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services. This material was funded by USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – SNAP.
