"They are able to earn a half a credit through the high school, but they have to complete 60 hours within the parents as teachers program," explained Renee Hendrickson of parents as teachers.

Every Thursday the teens meet during regular school hours at Jefferson City High School, but as part of this new curriculum they're also encouraged to come with their children for the drop in and play sessions.

"I think it's a good add on," said Micca Ruffin with Jefferson City public schools. "And I think it's an extension of what we already do, and I'm anxious to see the results."

The ultimate goal of the program is to reduce weight gained from pregnancy and then to maintain a healthy weight. The grant hopes to help teenage parents increase physical activity, drink more water, reduce snacking and minimize TV viewing.

"Listening to the girls, and how they eat, and their schedules because they're going between work and school and stuff, I think it's going to be really interesting to see how it can influence their lifestyle and how they can change it," Hendrickson said. "And hopefully, how it can influence how they feed their children."

The groups will test the program in Jefferson City from now until August.

Parents as teachers programs are free to all families. You can contact your school district to find out more information about parents as teachers in your area.