Theory-based health education activities for third to sixth grade children

Eight educational activities based on social learning and social support theories were used as part of a comprehensive cardiovascular risk reduction program for families with children in the third to sixth grades. These activities focused on providing the children with skills in recognizing high-salt and high-saturated fat foods, preparing such foods, resisting pressures to each such foods, increasing aerobic activity and providing support to peers and family in attempting such changes. Data analyses revealed significantly greater decreases in high-salt and high-saturated, fat food consumption and perceived increases in aerobic activity, in the experimental than the control group. The participative, enjoyment and inexpensive aspects of these activities are emphasized to encourage their use in school health programs.