As the United States faces increasing percentages of children suffering from childhood obesity, Fort Bragg continues to look for ways to bring the numbers down. On Friday, Fort Bragg’s Child, Youth, and School Services (CYSS) hosted their 13^th Annual Nutrition Fest at Tolson Youth Activities Center.

Fort Bragg’s Nutrition Fest 2012, which was free and open to all, focused on teaching children the importance of exercise and eating nutritious foods. Breaking the fest into morning and afternoon sessions, CYSS provided games and activities to make the learning experience fun and entertaining for children of all ages. Some of the activities included a puppet show by the Army Community Services department, face painting, sports activities, healthy food vendors, and a farmers market.

Krystal Ndungu, a Family Child Care provider on Fort Bragg, tries to involve the children she cares for in as many events at the Youth Activities Center as possible. Ndungu brought five children to the Nutrition Fest at Tolson.

“They love it,” said Ndungu. “We’re teaching them nutrition and how to eat healthier at the center and at home.”

The event reached close to 1,000 children in the Fort Bragg and Fayetteville communities. CYSS Coordinator, Beverly Sanders, was pleased with the turnout. 

“It gives [the children] the opportunity to learn about healthier meal and snack options,” said Sanders.