Abstract
Objective
To compare knowledge gains and knowledge retention of healthful eating and active
living behaviors in elementary school children participating in Educational Theatre
Programs (ETP).
Methods
The study sample included 47 schools (2,915 third- or fourth-grade students) in 8
Kaiser Permanente regions. Children's knowledge of 4 healthful behaviors was measured
using a brief survey before and immediately after performances, followed by a post-delay
survey 3 weeks later.
Results
Statistically significant increases in knowledge pre/post for individual topics (P < .01). The percentage of children who answered all 4 questions correctly increased
from 17% to 63% immediately after ETP performances (P < .01). Knowledge was retained over the short term; the proportion of students who
correctly identified recommended healthful eating/active living practices had declined
only slightly 3 weeks later.
Conclusions and Implications
The ETP significantly improved participating students' knowledge of healthful eating
and active living concepts. Theater programs should be considered for inclusion in
elementary school health curricula.
Key Words
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: November 28, 2011
Identification
Copyright
© 2012 Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
