By

Kelly Featherston,   Georgia W. Kimball Elementary School

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The FUTP 60 program has helped students at Kimball get a bit healthier by having them try smoothies during PE class and having smoothies as an option at breakfast. We used our funds to purchase 4 new Vitamix blenders to make smoothies. The kids loved trying new recipes and having healthier options for breakfast. Several kids have shared that they are now making smoothies at home with their parents!

What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?

At first, it was overwhelming to think about making smoothies for all students when they came to PE class, but there were several parent volunteers who helped. I also reached out to our school district nutrition department and they helped too!

How did students and adults work together as a team?

The students helped our smoothie day happen by bringing in the ingredients! They brought frozen vegetables and fruit the day before. All the students were patient while we were making the smoothies and listened as the adults explained what ingredients would be added. There were a few kids with allergies but the adults kept track of who could not have which foods and everything went smoothly!

How do you plan to make this Play last during the school year and beyond?

We continue to have smoothies as a breakfast option throughout the school year and we often talk to the kids about healthy eating. If kids try a new smoothie at home, we have them share the ingredients they used with the whole class!