To combat the rising trend of childhood obesity in Los Angeles County schools, fourth and fifth grade students and their parents are participating in the "Kid Healthy--Steps to Healthy Living" campaign. Illnesses like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke and other medical complications are linked to obesity; and controlling weight problems early in life--when they can be better managed--is critical to better health later on.
From March 1 to April 30, students and their parents will learn more about nutrition and exercise. Students will get a free pedometer, courtesy of Kaiser Permanente, to track their walking and running. Logging what they eat during the four-week campaign will help students understand the relationship between exercise, eating and weight management.
Fourth and fifth graders are targeted because research shows this is when many children begin taking an active role and interest in their health as they move into their teen years. It's an ideal time to reach them and reinforce the important messages of healthy eating and exercise.
The Kid Healthy campaign was founded by ABC7 in 2003 and is a partnership with the Network for a Healthy California--Children's Power Play! Campaign as well as schools, teachers and parents. UC Cooperative Extension manages the Power Play! Campaign in Los Angeles County.
Source: Kid Healthy--Steps to Healthy Living Campaign, 2011
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