Junior League of Chattanooga will serve up a third portion of Kids in the Kitchen, a fun-filled day for children to learn about nutrition and exercise, on Saturday at Thrasher Elementary School.
“It is an amazing program that reaches hundreds of children each year,” said Whitney Webb, Junior League spokeswoman. “We strive to teach them about healthy eating and exercise in a fun, exciting way.”
Activities for the youngsters will include educational games, physical activities including yoga and Pilates, chef demonstrations and healthy snack ideas.
“The best part is it is free,” Webb said. “The first 150 kids will receive a free goody bag.”
The Junior League is partnering with the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department/Step ONE’s Eat Smart Healthy Starts program, Erlanger Hospital, several local businesses and restaurants, and local dietitians and chefs to put on this year’s event.
Kids in the Kitchen is supported by the Association of Junior Leagues International and its member leagues. The program began in 2006 to address the rapid rise of childhood obesity and the associated health issues children have due to being overweight.
“We have received nothing but praise from teachers, students and their parents about Kids in the Kitchen,” Webb said.
The Chattanooga chapter also is partnering with the MCR Foundation’s Ladybug program, which encourages children to have a positive body image. The foundation is named for Mary Cameron Robinson, who passed away from an eating disorder in 2005.
IF YOU GO
* What: Junior League of Chattanooga’s Kids in the Kitchen.
* When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday.
* Where: Thrasher Elementary, 1301 James Blvd., Signal Mountain.
* Admission: Free.
* Phone: 267-5053.
* Note: Because of limited parking at the school, shuttles will run from Signal Crest United Methodist, 1005 Ridgeview Terrace, every 15 minutes.