Promising Practices

Nutrition Activity Sheet for Children
Bergen County Board of Social Services, New Jersey

Since August 2004, the Bergen County Board of Social Services in New Jersey, developed and printed a nutrition activity sheet to help keep children entertained while their parents are being interviewed for food stamps. It also provides crayons to the youngsters. Subsequently, two other counties adopted this practice: The Morris County Division of Employment and Temporary Assistance Program Services and the Ocean County Board of Social Services.

The nutrition activity sheet was designed in-house, which did not involve any costs. However, the crayons cost $900 for 8,400 boxes, and the printing and delivery totaled $1,450. This money came from a "Food Stamp Incentive Award."

Eligibility specialists, parents and children are very pleased with the activity sheets. Children love them; they stay entertained during the interview process and learn a little, as well! Because there are fewer distractions, for the eligibility worker and the parents, the interview goes faster. Bergen County also uses the activity sheets in the waiting room where they also help to keep children quiet and busy.

Suggestion: Involve staff volunteers in designing the project. It's fun and provides a great outlet for their creativity. Keep in mind the age of the target group and include age appropriate graphics and activities.

For more information, contact:

Patricia Bogert, Training Supervisor
Bergen County Board of Social Services
216 Rt. 17 No., Rochelle Park, New Jersey 07662
pbogert@bcbss.com
201) 368-7677

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