Send us a text

What if teaching children about nutrition could be as vibrant and engaging as a rainbow? Dr. Jessica Miller transforms healthy eating education through her colorful children's book "Rico Eats a Rainbow," bringing her unique background as both educator and public health specialist to tackle childhood nutrition challenges.

Dr. Miller shares the heartwarming story behind her book's creation—initially designed as a personal gift for her nephew Rico before evolving into a powerful educational tool now used in schools nationwide. The genius of her approach lies in its positive framing: rather than demonizing certain foods, the book celebrates the colorful variety of nutritious options available to children. This strategy has earned enthusiastic endorsements from physicians who recognize its potential to address the alarming rise in childhood chronic conditions they witness daily.

As we discover during our conversation, "Rico Eats a Rainbow" does more than just teach nutrition facts—it empowers children by positioning them as knowledgeable guides who can teach their parents something new. The book cleverly models family conversations about food choices and introduces concepts like farmer's markets as accessible adventures rather than intimidating health mandates. Dr. Miller's careful attention to language—avoiding phrases like "bad foods" in favor of more balanced messaging—creates a judgment-free zone where families can learn together.

The impact of Dr. Miller's work extends beyond individual families, with teachers developing entire curriculum units around the book and pediatricians keeping copies in their offices to loan to patients. Now expanding into a series with forthcoming titles on physical activity and hand hygiene, Dr. Miller has found her calling in creating children's literature with strong public health messaging that resonates with readers of all ages. Whether you're a parent struggling with picky eaters, an educator seeking engaging health materials, or simply someone interested in creative approaches to public health challenges, this conversation offers valuable insights into how colorful storytelling can transform healthy habits.

Support the show

https://www.thegenko.com