Healthy Hydration for the Whole Family

Published in our January 2025 newsletter

Though much of our programming takes place in classrooms and cafeterias during the school day, special events are not off limits for EAT RIGHT PHILLY! Going beyond the classroom gives us the opportunity to connect with students, families, and community members to help people of all ages live their healthiest lives.

One such event was Overbrook Educational Center’s BINGO Night in late November. Despite the chilly, rainy weather, the gym was filled with the school’s families for a Friday evening of snacks, drinks, games, and raffle prizes.

The event was also a great opportunity to combine two of EAT RIGHT PHILLY’S wellness themes: hydration and healthy celebrations. Nutrition Coordinator Hannah tabled at the event, talking to participants about why water is the best choice for staying hydrated. To demonstrate an easy way to jazz up plain water, she set up an infused water bar with a variety of delicious, healthy options to add flavor, including sliced strawberries, sliced lemons, chunks of pineapple, and fresh mint leaves. Participants were provided with a reusable, color-changing cup in which they created personalized infused water to enjoy as a healthy and flavorful beverage.

The infused water bar was a hit, especially with the younger participants! Right away groups of children and teens came up to the table, curious about infused water and eager to try flavoring with fruit. Hannah helped everyone customize their drinks, explaining the importance of healthy hydration and limiting added sugar. Before long, some of the children were returning with their friends or adult family members, encouraging them to try infused water too. Several families throughout the gym chose infused water instead of soda that night, making the evening a success!

If you’re interested in incorporating hydration programming or healthy celebrations at your school, reach out to your nutrition coordinator!