Since 2010, schools across America have been taking part in Michelle Obama's 'Let's Move' initiative to help fight childhood obesity in America — with parents, principals and teachers trying to promote healthy living in and out of the classroom.
So, how well is it working? Have schools in Walnut Creek found ways to keep local children fit and healthy?
The Mount Diablo School District adheres to USDA nutrition standards for its school meals, offering unlimited fruits and vegetables and using whole grains. The district hired a chef for the 2012-13 school year to "introduce some exciting new healthy recipes" on school menus. The Walnut Creek School District has a wellness policy that provides nutrition guidelines for school meals and stipulates that students get an hour a day of exercise.
But "Let's Move" wants schools to do more than ditch junk food and give P.E. lessons. Teachers are encouraged to incorporate nutrition education and physical activity into the curriculum, by making such concepts part of the daily routine.
For example, the Active Schools Acceleration Program is currently offering grants for schools to take more innovative steps toward getting the kids active. Programs include "an academically integrated curriculum of in-class movement breaks," a before-school group aerobic work-out program, and a "100-mile club" where the kids work throughout the school year to run 100 miles.
How is your child's school helping students stay fit and healthy? What do you think are the most effective methods to fight childhood obesity in school? Share your experience in the comments.