Academics

Professor receives recognition from First Lady for Kid's Choice Program Guide

SCHUYLKILL HAVEN, Pa. -- For the past decade, Helen Hendy, professor of psychology at Penn State Schuylkill; Dr. Keith Williams, feeding director, Penn State Hershey Medical Center; and Thomas Camise, retired principal of Schuylkill Haven Area Elementary Center; published a number of research articles that document the effectiveness of the Kid’s Choice Program (KCP). The goal of this research-documented, easy-to-use, and cost-effective program is to reduce child obesity and increase healthy behaviors in children.

In 2013, they published a user-friendly book for school principals who may want to set up the Kid’s Choice Program in their schools. The book, titled, “Reduce Child Obesity: A guide for using the Kid’s Choice Program in school and at home,” (Roman & Littlefield Press), gives school leaders and parents a practical guide for applying the program. Complimentary books were sent to all Schuylkill County elementary principals as a thank you for their help in developing the program, along with the invaluable help of over sixty student research assistants.

A copy also was sent to First Lady Michelle Obama, because she has worked diligently to reduce childhood obesity with her “Let’s Move” campaign. In a personalized letter to Hendy, the First Lady recognized the group for their work on improving the health of our nation’s families and encouraging children to get active and eat fresh, nutritious food, in order to build a brighter, healthier future for our next generation.

Last Updated April 6, 2015

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