Abstract Reality
Curbing Childhood obesiTy: The role of sChool gardens
C
hildhood obesity, once rare, is rising sharply Elements of childhood nutrition that encompass
as a result of many factors associated with environmental, ecological, social, and behav-
a rapidly changing society. Obesity is now ioral aspects historically have been neglected. The
the most serious dietary problem affecting children’s emerging interest in the relationship between child-
health in North America. Various programs targeting hood obesity and the amount of contact children
childhood obesity have generated little improve- have with nature, together with their understanding
ment in children’s health and weight. One program of the food chain, is an area of prime focus. Research
that shows promise in curbing obesity in children is presented that investigates the bridging effect
is school gardening organized within the school between nutritional factors of childhood obesity and
curriculum. School gardens appear to have enor- factors of environmental sustainability.
mous potential in curbing childhood obesity through This study (a) summarizes the research literature
reorienting children to the land that sustains them. available on school gardens relative to nutrition and
This study examines the potential of school gardens ecoliteracy, (b) discusses challenges and implications
to provide a multidimensional approach toward involved in implementing school garden projects, (c)
improving nutrition and instilling dietary and lifestyle provides a framework to guide future inquiry, and (d)
habits supportive of normal body weight in children. suggests areas of study for future research.
The rise in childhood obesity with its accompanying
Roni Britton, PhD
health challenges and the simultaneous rise in envi-
ronmental problems reflect an urgent need to teach
Roni Britton is a 2008 graduate of the CCNH PhD in holistic
children sustainable methods of food production in
nutrition. She is continuing her work on curbing childhood
order to meet the challenges that are now beginning
obesity, by establishing school gardens enabling students
to threaten the health and longevity of children.
to produce a significant portion of their school meals using
This study explores the potential of school
organic, sustainable growing methods. Roni is currently
gardens to improve children’s dietary consumption
working on a project designed to benefit local school
of fruits and vegetables. Additionally, this research
children, although future plans embrace a national program
provides insight on the impact that garden-based
for establishing school gardens. She is also involved in
learning has on children’s environmental aware-
organizing a holistic nutrition program to improve and
ness and their understanding of their relationship to
ensure adequate and accessible nutrition for rural Nigerians.
the food system and the value of life in nature. This
Roni has actively studied nutrition for over 25 years, and is
study also investigates the question of a possible
dedicated to improving the nutrition of people worldwide
interconnection of childhood obesity with the envi-
through education. Her previous studies were at the
ronment, ecology, and the social dimensions of
University of Texas at Arlington, having earned a teaching
nutrition science in the prevention and reversal of
certificate, as well as a bachelor of fine arts degree.
childhood obesity.
Janice E. Martin, EdD, ND, LPC • Professor of Graduate Research
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