PAHO promotes healthy habits through storytelling session in Speightstown, Barbados

Speightstown, Barbados, 18 October 2025 (PAHO) - A team from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) recently partnered with the Barbados Roaring Virtual Lions Club and Story Time @ Speightstown to host an engaging and educational session for children at the Speightstown Branch of the Barbados National Library Service.

Story Time @ Speightstown, hosted every Saturday for children ages 3 to 11, offers storytelling, arts, games, and guest participation from organizations across the island. On 18 October 2025, PAHO delivered a fun, health-focused session designed to boost knowledge on everyday wellness practices.

The children participated in reading activities and watched short educational videos, including one demonstrating proper handwashing techniques to reduce the spread of germs. There was a session dedicated to coloring using an educational coloring and activity book produced by PAHO.

The most exciting part of the morning featured a hands-on demonstration exploring the sugar content in familiar foods and drinks. By placing spoonfuls of sugar into cups to represent the amount hidden in each product, children and parents were surprised by what they discovered. The simple activity delivered a powerful message, check nutrition labels to make informed choices.

Fresh fruit was shared with the children at the end of the session to reinforce healthy snacking. When asked which activity they enjoyed the most, the majority proudly chose the healthy eating segment.

Jason Hynds of the Barbados Roaring Virtual Lions Club, who coordinated the event, expressed gratitude for the collaboration. "We hope that there can be more activities like this to help build our community toward healthier current and future states." He also highlighted the enthusiastic and meaningful participation of neurodivergent children throughout the activities.

Dr. Amalia Del Riego, PAHO/WHO Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Countries, applauded the initiative. "Positive habits begin early in life. Supporting our children to learn about nutrition, hygiene, and healthy living in fun and creative ways helps shape a brighter and healthier future. We are very proud to have participated in this community activity."

PAHO remains committed to promoting health literacy and empowering young people across Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean. The organization looks forward to further partnering with community groups and stakeholders to continue inspiring healthy choices for life.

A demonstration of sugar content in food with Gloria Giraldo, Advisor, Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health, PAHO/WHO Subregional Program Coordination, Caribbean Enjoying healthy snacks with Taraleen Malcolm, Advisor Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health, PAHO/WHO Office for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Countries Trying to find the sugar content on a product label.

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