State Representative Carol Kent, House District 102, and State Senator Royce West, District 23 want to get the word out about children's nutrition.

Underscoring the importance of healthy eating, Kent and West - together with the Dallas Dietetic Association - are hosting a presentation entitled "Nutrition from the Ground Up: Growing Strong and Healthy Children."

The February 20th nutrition-based event is being offered free of charge and is targeted to parents with children ages three through eight.

Presentations will feature registered dietitians from the Dallas Dietetic Association who will discuss and demonstrate nutritious foods for children.

"Though genetics dictate much about our health, we do have some control," says Rep. Kent.

"Helping children make the right food choices at a young age will guide them into making proper nutritional choices that will influence their physical well-being as they get older."

“We are pleased to work with Representative Kent and Senator West on this event to promote positive nutrition habits for children,” offers Dallas Dietetic Association President, Martha McHenry.

“Parents will learn how good nutrition for children can be fun, easy and taste good.”

Program topics, "Best Breakfast Bets," "Smart Snacks," and "It's in the Bag," will be presented at three different stations for parents, with food samples available for tasting.

There will also be activities and nutritious snacks available for children who attend with their parents.

The local nutrition initiative is a precursor to National Nutrition Month, which takes place in March.

"Parents who engage in a daily battle with their children to get them to eat healthy will find this program useful and filled with helpful information,”" says Rep. Kent.

"Leading kids down the right path early in life will help them live a healthier future."

Though the event is free and open to the public, reservations are suggested as space is limited.

For reservations, please e-mail or call 214-570-9379.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, February 20th at 10:00 a.m. to attend this fun, informative event at the Willie B. Johnson Recreation Center, located at 12225 Willowdell Drive in Dallas.