Can an immersion in wellness camp influence youth health behaviors?

Abstract

Summer 4-H camps present an untapped opportunity for advancement of mission mandates. The project reported here immersed campers in healthy living experiential learning. The goal was to improve selfefficacy and health behaviors related to nutrition and physical activity. Data was collected from enrolled campers through multiple survey tools. A total of 74 campers completed baseline surveys during summer 2012; 6-month follow-up rate was 72%. Camp improved intervention campers' nutrition knowledge (p<0.10) and home food environment (p<0.05). Results suggest experiential learning/immersion opportunities in nutrition, culinary, and gardening may encourage positive health behaviors and influence the home food environment.