Research on Jump with Jill demonstrates kids are tuned in to the Rockstar Nutritionist. Not only does Jump with Jill get kids rockin’ and learnin’, the messages translate into measurable behavioral improvements. These changes include an increase in physical activity, drinking more water and drinking less soda. Even seven months after seeing the show, kids could still recall the messages, particularly about the importance of physical activity. Not bad when you consider how easily kids forget their homework, and that Jill’s one time intervention is competing with the well-funded, unhealthy competition kids see daily in advertisements.
Study Details
In support of America on the Move, Fort Wayne Cardiology in Indiana conducted an independent evaluation of Jump with Jill in the fall of 2009. Researchers determined the show had a meaningful impact on 3rd, 4th and 5th graders’ behavior with regard to health and fitness. Seven weeks after watching Jump with Jill, 153 students completed a questionnaire examining their responses to the performance.
Specific Findings
After seeing the Jump with Jill show:
- 75% of all students reported trying to be more active.
- 81% of 4th graders and 74% of 3rd graders reported trying to drink more water.
- 58% of the 3rd graders reported trying to drink less soda.
- 80% of 3rd graders reported telling a parent about Jill’s health and nutrition messages.
- More than half of 3rd and 4th graders reported that a family member had changed their behavior due to Jill’s messages – drinking more water, drinking less soda, and/or being more active.
Seven Months After Jump with Jill
Of particular significance is a follow-up study conducted seven months after students’ exposure to Jump with Jill. The message regarding the importance of physical activity remained especially strong and continued to be recalled at similar rates to the initial assessment at seven weeks.(1)
(1) Follow-up results apply only to 3rd and 4th graders, as 5th graders were not available for the follow-up study because they moved to the Middle School.
Chubinski, S. (2009, 12). Report of baseline and 7 month data from children and adults about Jump with Jill Rockstar Nutritionist program. America on the Move board meeting, Fort Wayne, IN.