Kids were hopping to be healthy

RUSSELLVILLE — Chalk prompts and hopscotch squares lined the sidewalk outside the Russellville Public Library recently, forming a short course of movement challenges.

Chalk directions listed activities such as toe touches and arm circles with numbered squares and arrows marking the route.

A spin-the-wheel game added additional challenges, including jumping jacks, squats, dancing and balancing on one foot.

The library partnered with the Franklin County Extension Office to host the “Move Across Franklin County” event, part of the statewide “Move Across Alabama” program.

Tables included printed materials on reading nutrition labels, cutting back on sugary drinks, and planning simple, lowcost meals.

Handouts also included tips on portion sizes and ways to add fruits and vegetables to daily routines. Examples included:

• Blending vegetables into sauces such as spaghetti sauce.

• Letting kids choose a new fruit or vegetable to try each week.

• Add vegetables to dishes such as casseroles or pasta.

• Serving fruit instead of dessert when possible.

• Keep offering new foods, even if kids refuse them at first. Shirley Jimenez, an Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program educator with the Franklin County Extension Office, described the program’s focus on nutrition and physical activity.

“Families can move together, share healthy recipes and learn ways to stay active,” she said.

Sara Davis, who works at the library, attended with her daughter, AdaLynn.

“I love watching how much she enjoys it,” Davis said.

Jasmine Fanjoy attended with her son, Jayce.

“It’s something active, and it’s right here downtown,” Fanjoy said. “It’s a simple, free activity to spend time with my son. It’s a good way to have fun together.”