Students participating in Many Elementary School’s Summer PALS program recently enjoyed a lesson that combined nutrition, healthy habits, and hands-on learning, thanks to a partnership with the Sabine Parish AgCenter.
During the educational session, AgCenter representatives Mrs. Erin and Mrs. Julia, along with summer volunteer Lexie, guided students through the process of creating their own fruit and yogurt parfaits while teaching the fundamentals of healthy eating and balanced nutrition.
The interactive lesson focused on helping students understand the importance of including foods from all major food groups as part of a balanced diet. As they assembled their parfaits, students learned how nutritious food choices contribute to overall health and wellness.
In addition to nutrition education, the program also emphasized the importance of proper handwashing practices to help prevent the spread of germs and illness.
“Healthy habits start with clean hands,” AgCenter educators told students as they discussed basic hygiene and disease prevention.
The hands-on approach allowed students to actively participate in the lesson while reinforcing valuable life skills that can be applied both at home and in the classroom.
The Sabine Parish AgCenter also recognized the contributions of Summer PALS coordinator Tena Cook, who helped organize and prepare materials for the activity.
“Mrs. Tena Cook has been such a joy to partner with,” AgCenter staff said. “She has all of the ingredients out and ready for the day at each PALS site and stays to help us. The lessons are very hands-on, and we appreciate the extra helping hands.”
Programs like Summer PALS provide students with opportunities to continue learning during the summer months while participating in engaging educational activities that promote academic growth and personal development.
AgCenter officials said combining nutrition education with hands-on experiences helps children better understand healthy lifestyle choices while making learning enjoyable.
The event concluded with plenty of smiles, full stomachs, and new knowledge that students can carry with them beyond the classroom.
For organizers, the successful lesson demonstrated how community partnerships can create meaningful educational experiences while encouraging healthy habits among local youth.
As summer programming continues across Sabine Parish, educators remain committed to providing opportunities that help students learn, grow, and develop skills that support lifelong health and success.