KETC is partnering with Grace Hill Head Start to create It Only Takes One Step to a Healthy Mind, Body and Soul, focused on the adoption of a healthy lifestyle for child care providers. The initiative has implemented a Walking Club for child care providers, providing them with pedometers, personal journals and charts to keep track of their steps taken. The providers also receive monthly examples of healthy snacks; and monthly professional development focused on health issues with presenters from the American Heart Association, the American Diabetes Association and other health organizations. The project will culminate in an It Only Takes One Step to a Healthy Mind, Body and Soul Fun Walk and Health Fair. A key component of the project was the It Only Takes One Step to a Health Mind, Body and Soul Fun Walk and Health Fair.

In St. Louis’ early childhood community, the growing epidemic of childhood obesity has created a need for healthy role modeling by the adults caring for these children on a daily basis. The children at the Grace Hill Head Start centers are in the care of these providers for the majority of their day; thus the providers’ influence on the children and their families is significant. The unhealthy choices many of these child care providers make each day affects their own personal health, but even more so, is observed by and has a direct effect on the children in their care.

By participating in It Only Takes One Step to a Healthy Mind, Body and Soul, the 120 providers and support staff have taken important steps toward improving their physical health and mental outlook.