MAPPING HEALTH KNOWLEDGE AMONG SCHOOL CHILDREN: CONTRIBUTIONS FROM A UNIVERSITY EXTENSION PROJECT

Abstract

Introduction: Health promotion in childhood is one of the fundamental pillars for the integral development of children, especially in the school environment, where knowledge is built through interaction. Children aged 7 to 12 are in a decisive period of forming values, habits, and attitudes, marked by physical, cognitive, emotional, and social transformations that directly influence their perception of themselves and the world around them. Objective: to analyze the contributions of the university extension project “Map of Knowledge - It Starts Early” in mapping health knowledge among school children. Methodology: This is a qualitative experience report based on actions carried out by nursing students in schools in Suzano-SP, with the participation of 242 children. The activities were organized into four thematic areas and conducted using playful methodologies. Results: The children demonstrated gaps in their health care knowledge, but there was an improvement in knowledge and practice after the interventions. Appropriation of content and active participation were observed, with repercussions in the family and school community. Conclusion: The project highlighted the transformative potential of university extension in health education, promoting autonomy, critical thinking, and citizenship training from childhood.