HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – West Virginia State University (WVSU) Extension Service recently partnered with Huntington Community Church to deliver nutrition education to more than 140 young people attending summer camp at the A.D. Lewis Community Center in Huntington. 

Centered on the theme “You Are What You Eat,” the interactive series encouraged children to make healthy food choices through engaging, hands-on learning experiences.

One lesson emphasized the importance of proper hydration and introduced fruit-infused water as a flavorful alternative to sugar-sweetened beverages. Campers explored how adequate hydration supports energy, concentration, physical activity and overall health while sampling naturally flavored water infused with fresh fruits. 

“The hydration lesson was met with overwhelming enthusiasm as campers sampled a variety of fruit-infused waters while learning healthy alternatives to sugar-sweetened beverages,” said Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Extension Educator Tammy Hauldren. “The popularity of the activity exceeded expectations, with both infused water stations requiring refills throughout the session. The experience demonstrated that nutritious beverage choices can be both appealing and enjoyable for children.”

Another lesson featured a food demonstration in which campers prepared black bean and cheese quesadillas while learning about the role of protein in a healthy diet. The discussion highlighted how protein supports growth and development, builds and repairs muscle, promotes satiety and provides sustained energy for active children. By actively participating in the food preparation process, campers gained practical skills and increased confidence in making nutritious food choices at home. 

Campers also participated in a craft activity where they made their own bracelets using colored beads meant to represent various positive character traits like patience and kindness. During the process, campers discussed what the various qualities mean and how they can be demonstrated through everyday actions.

“As the kids selected their bead colors, they shared examples of how they could practice these values at home, at school and in their communities,” said FCS Extension Educator Logan Watts. “The activity fostered teamwork, meaningful conversations and personal reflection while providing a fun, hands-on learning experience.”

Each camper left with a bracelet they created themselves, providing a meaningful keepsake and a lasting reminder of the lessons they explored together.

To learn more about WVSU Extension Service’s FCS programs, visit wvstateu.edu/extension.