According to recent studies the percentage of children who are considered obese has more than doubled and that the percentage of adolescents has more than tripled – all since 1980! Aside from obesity taking a toll on a child’s self esteem, could cause bullying and it also raises the risk of diabetes, stroke and possibly heart disease. Sadly, less than 25% of adolescents get the daily recommended amount of fruits and vegetables and 64% of high school students do not get the daily recommended amount of physical activity. As a school nurse and/or health teacher what can you do to help? Check out these ten useful tips straight from the CDC:
1. Address physical activity and nutrition through a Coordinated School Health Program (CSHP).
2. Designate a school health coordinator and maintain an active school health council.
3. Assess the school’s health policies and programs and develop a plan for improvements.
4. Strengthen the school’s nutrition and physical activity policies.
5. Implement a high-quality health promotion program for school staff.
6. Implement a high-quality course of study in health education.
7. Implement a high-quality course of study in physical education.
8. Increase opportunities for students to engage in physical activity.
9. Implement a quality school meals program.
10. Ensure that students have appealing, healthy choices in foods and beverages offered outside of the school meals program.
To learn more check out the Make a Difference at Your School PDF from the CDC offering lots of facts, strategies and more.
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