Healthy School Communities Resource for Teachers and Parents

Healthy School Communities Resource for Teachers and Parents

What is a healthy school? Many definitions and models exist. A healthy school values sound nutrition, increased physical activity and positive social environments. Everyone is a partner including students, teachers, parents and community members. Everyone receives the same health message whether at home, in school, or in the community.

Why do we need healthy schools? 87% of children and youth are not meeting Canada’s physical activity guidelines of 90 minutes of physical activity a day only 10% of Canadian youth are meeting the guideline for screen time of less than 2 hours per day, and many get close to 6 hours per day More than 1 in 4 Alberta children & youth are overweight, this has led to increasing rates of Type 2 diabetes in young people

How healthy is our school? Ask students, teachers, and parents their views. Connect with other schools to learn what they are doing. Use a tool to see what is working and where you many need to focus: ◦ Healthy Eating / Active Living Checklist ◦ Queensland Health Promoting Schools Toolbox

What resources are available? Healthy School Communities Resource for Parents and Teachers Moving and Choosing Healthy Weights Coordinators

What are our goals? Pick one or two for the school year. Ideas include: Kids’ Cooking Club Healthy Hot Lunches Family Gym Nights Recess Before Lunch Healthy Buddies

How do we get started? Research Talk to other schools Decide who will lead the project: ◦ Administration ◦ Parent Council initiative ◦ Staff Wellness Committee Establish a game plan and get moving!

How are we doing? Before and after comparison. What do the children, parents and staff think of this initiative? What worked? What didn’t work so well? Plan for your next goal with all of this in mind.

Let’s celebrate! Assemblies School Website Success stories on Moving and Choosing Website Healthy School Awards