Abstract
Overweight and obesity is on the rise with elementary school-aged children in the United States today. Studies show that children are influenced in their eating habits not only from their families, friends, and school environment, but also from the media in both print advertisements as well as televised commercials. Review of literature shows there are many factors that come into play when educating children in the areas of health and nutrition. This curriculum unit instructs children in the second, third, and fourth elementary grades about eating from the food groups in a healthy way and the importance of daily exercise. In addition, children will learn about the ways that consumers are influenced by the media and grocery store gimmicks. Reading nutrition labels and identifying balanced meals are also among the activities involved in this unit. Proper instruction at this age level is thought to have a positive effect on future decisions made by children and their parents.