RENO, Nev. (KRNV & MyNews4.com) -- Childhood obesity is a nationwide problem, but some local kids are learning how to take their health into their own hands.
The Junior League of Reno is teaming up with chef Jennifer Bushman to teach kids how to make healthy foods for themselves and their families for free.
"It's sad to see some of the kids that are your friends not being so healthy," said Aspen, a 12-year-old taking the class.
Aspen is ahead of the curve, and she's one of dozens of kids today who's learning to make healthy choices.
SOT JENNIFER BUSHMAN, Culinary Educator: "The earlier we start them on these things the more likely it is that they'll carry these habits into their adult lives," Bushman said.
Bushman is teaching a class today with the help of volunteers from the Junior League called Kids in the Kitchen - and it's fighting childhood obesity with education.
SOT TAMRA BARNES, Junior League of Reno: "It's just a new way of looking at food, being healthier, stepping outside their box, learning how to try new things, said Tamra Barnes, who volunteered today.
Bushman says getting the kids involved hands-on is a huge help.
"If you were tomake dinner for them they might reject half of it, but if they actually participate in making the salad they'll eat it because they're so proud of it," Bushman said.
They hope the kids will eat healthy foods and stay active, which many of the kids already know is important.
2-SHOT ALYCIA, 9: Do you think it's fun to eat healthy and exercise? Yes. Do you think everybody should do it? Um hm.
"It makes it so you don't get tired as much, and if you eat junk food then your stomach hurts," said Tristan, a 13-year-old participant.
But if your kids don't like healthy snacks Bushman says keep trying.
"Try it again and try it again," Bushman said. "It takes on average 12 to 13 times for a child to try something new in order to like it.
Kids can get back in the kitchen this fall.
The next event is Saturday, Oct. 6 at 2:30 p.m. at the Nevada Discovery Museum.
