Wichita Children’s Program Throws Garden Grown Salsa Parties for Parents

Share On Social!

In addition to increasing nutrition education and physical activity programs for children, the City of Wichita Parks and Recreation Department found ways to involve parents.

Wichita (15.2% Latino) expanded their gardening programs and cooking projects for their summer campers.  Campers made fruit kabobs and yogurt parfaits, and they grew tomatoes, bell peppers, and cilantro.  Campers then made fresh salsa using the vegetables they grew and threw a Salsa Celebration Party for their parents.

Additionally, parents were invited to participate in field days.

Throughout the summer, children were encouraged to complete 250 laps around the gym to be part of the “250 Lap Club.”  Over 14,300 laps were completed last summer.  Wichita also provided sports clinics, boot camps, obstacle courses and hip-hop dance classes.

Engaging parents in healthy living opportunities is important to establish lasting healthy habits for the entire family.

Click here to learn more about the changes Wichita made to engage parents in and provide more nutrition education and physical activity programs.