MyPyramid for Kids Classroom Materials

Edith Clogg, Dietetic Intern
University of Maryland, College Park

The MyPyramid for Kids Classroom Materials is a compilation of resources developed for the elementary school level to help children learn about MyPyramid for Kids.  These materials are child-friendly adaptations of the MyPyramid food guidance system. Materials available include the MyPyramid for Kids graphic, classroom materials, and an interactive computer game.

The MyPyramid Blast Off computer game is an interactive way for elementary students to increase their knowledge about the basic food groups, healthy food choices, and physical activity.  While playing, students learn to make food and activity selections that  meet daily calorie and food group requirements, avoid foods high in solid fats and added sugars, and include 60 minutes per day of physical activity.  Once the selections are made students can “Blast Off” and see if they have the right balance of fuel (food and physical activity) to reach Planet Power. The distance that their rocket ship travels is based on the Food Intake pattern for their gender and age.

The classroom materials include lesson plans geared towards three learning levels, each containing age appropriate activities, a color double-sided wall poster, a parent handout called Tips for Families, and a CD-ROM with supplemental materials for educators. The lessons can be taught with minimal preparation, include a link to the National School Lunch Program and have curriculum connections to various school subjects like math and science, and identify skills that students will develop, like graphing and analyzing information.

Elementary educators and child care providers can order the MyPyramid for Kids materials from the MyPyramid.gov and Team Nutrition Web sites.  The classroom materials may also be downloaded from the Team Nutrition Web site.