Camp NERF: methods of a theory-based nutrition education recreation and fitness program aimed at preventing unhealthy weight gain in underserved elementary children during summer months

Laura C Hopkins, Mary Fristad, Jacqueline D Goodway, Ihuoma Eneli, Chris Holloman, Julie A Kennel, Bernadette Melnyk, Carolyn Gunther, Laura C Hopkins, Mary Fristad, Jacqueline D Goodway, Ihuoma Eneli, Chris Holloman, Julie A Kennel, Bernadette Melnyk, Carolyn Gunther

Abstract

Background: The number of obese children in the US remains high, which is problematic due to the mental, physical, and academic effects of obesity on child health. Data indicate that school-age children, particularly underserved children, experience unhealthy gains in BMI at a rate nearly twice as fast during the summer months. Few efforts have been directed at implementing evidence-based programming to prevent excess weight gain during the summer recess.

Methods: Camp NERF is an 8-week, multi-component (nutrition, physical activity, and mental health), theory-based program for underserved school-age children in grades Kindergarten - 5th coupled with the USDA Summer Food Service Program. Twelve eligible elementary school sites will be randomized to one of the three programming groups: 1) Active Control (non-nutrition, physical activity, or mental health); 2) Standard Care (nutrition and physical activity); or 3) Enhanced Care (nutrition, physical activity, and mental health) programming. Anthropometric, behavioral, and psychosocial data will be collected from child-caregiver dyads pre- and post-intervention. Site-specific characteristics and process evaluation measures will also be collected.

Discussion: This is the first, evidence-based intervention to address the issue of weight gain during the summer months among underserved, school-aged children. Results from this study will provide researchers, practitioners, and public health professionals with insight on evidence-based programming to aid in childhood obesity prevention during this particular window of risk.

Trial registration: NCT02908230/09-19-2016.

Keywords: Behavioral intervention; Childhood obesity prevention; Elementary children; Nutrition; Physical activity.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Camp NERF 2015 Theoretical Framework
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Overview of the Camp NERF Treatments

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