The goal of the CARDIAC-Kinder pilot project is to educate young children and their families about risk factors associated with chronic diseases (e.g. cardiovascular disease), focusing on increased knowledge about physical activity, nutrition, and obesity. As part of the pilot project, a research study will be conducted to determine the intervention’s effectiveness.

The purpose of this study is to increase awareness about normal growth (weight and height) among Kindergarten children, and to learn more about chronic diseases such as diabetes and premature heart disease. Early identification and education of factors associated with at risk growth will provide the opportunity to work with families to reduce the risk of heart disease later in the child’s life. It is hoped that increased awareness of cardiovascular disease risk and protective factors within West Virginian communities will result in local strategies to promote wellness.

Children and their parent(s) will be invited to participate in the study and will be asked to start a pedometer program for the following six weeks. Parents will receive educational materials about obesity, nutrition, and physical exercise as they pertain to the Kindergarten population. Changes in lifestyle (diet and exercise) are assessed throughout the length of the program to determine the impact of the various forms of educational techniques as well as pedometer usage.