LAS VEGAS, Nev. – A faculty member at University of Nevada Cooperative Extension has received national recognition for her program addressing nutrition and early literacy in Nevada.Early Care and Education Specialist YaeBin Kim received the First Place National Award in the human development/family relationships program category for her “Little Books and Little Cooks” nutrition and early literacy program from the National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences a few weeks ago at the Association’s annual meeting in Lexington, Ken.
The Little Books and Little Cooks Program was developed by Kim and is based on the premise that cooking offers children a way to learn pre-kindergarten skills and good nutrition, and to try nutritious foods. Parents also learn about good nutrition, positive feeding practices and positive parent-child interaction skills by reading, cooking and eating together with their children.
“I am extremely happy that YaeBin’s work was recognized by the Association,” said Mark Walker, dean of University of Nevada Cooperative Extension. “Her work exemplifies the importance of working with children from an early age to encourage good reading and eating habits. She identified the needs in her community and created this curriculum which encourages parents and children to learn and work together.”
Kim is based in Cooperative Extension’s Clark County office, and her work has primarily focused on early child care, education and literacy. She works with community members to introduce nutrition and literacy to children early in life, before kindergarten.
“I love what I do and how that impacts our community,” stated Kim after receiving the notification, “It is truly an honor to receive this recognition from the Association.”
The National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences educates and recognizes Extension professionals who improve the quality of life for individuals, families and communities.
