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Schools

Promoting Nutrition and Wellness in Schools

Hewitt PTA dedicates November to healthy living.

"The physical and emotional health of an entire generation and the economic health and security of our nation is at stake."  — First Lady Michelle Obama

According to Let's Move!, over the past three decades, childhood obesity rates in America have tripled, and today, nearly one in three children in America are overweight or obese. One third of all children born in 2000 or later will develop diabetes at some point in their lives, while many others will face chronic obesity-related health problems like heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer, and asthma. Today, we have a call to action, and educating our children about nutrition and wellness is paramount.

 has responded and for the past three years, has dedicated November to Nutrition and Wellness. Merri Lupo, a leader on the school's Nutrition and Wellness Committee, has organized along with other members a fun-filled, educational and interactive program to build nutritional awareness and promote healthy habits for students.  Merri said that the goal of the committee is to encourage healthy lifestyles by introducing fitness and nourishing food choices. Exposing children to a vibrant month of health at school can have a profound impact at home.

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Each morning Hewitt principal Elizabeth Pryke includes healthy lifestyle tidbits in her morning announcements. Later,  the children experience a world of wellness at lunch each day. For instance, on Taste it Tuesdays and Freaky Fruit Fridays, the children have the opportunity to taste nutritious foods and snacks like granola with yogurt and apple sauce, broccoli slaw and dip, guacamole and carrots, sliced pears with cinnamon, smoothies and popcorn.  Other weekly activities include Move and Groove Mondays, Wellness Walk Wednesdays, Think about it Thursdays and Food Detective Fridays.

At recess, the students have the opportunity to experience a variety of fitness activities and demonstrations. Local businesses have generously offered their time and services to enhance the health of Hewitt students. The kids have enjoyed Pilates, karate, speed and fitness training and exercises, African dance and nutrition awareness.  As a grand finale, the New York Islanders are presenting a Teamwork Assembly.

Find out what's happening in Rockville Centrewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

It's rewarding to see the kids respond positively to this program. For instance, when I showed my Food Detective Display, the children responded with such impressive feedback and questions. These kids really take pride in this experience. For example, at a district nutrition committee meeting on Tuesday, the fifth-grade nutrition representatives highlighted what they are learning and suggested that the district adopt some of these wellness strategies.

October and November PTA meetings have encouraged awareness with healthy giveaways and even a yoga class for parents given by Joan Kelly of Divine Yoga. Children follow their parents lead, so it is important for parents to cultivate a healthy lifestyle.

The Let's Move! Campaign encourages  collaborative and community-oriented programs that address health and wellness and Hewitt Elementary School has made remarkable strides in this endeavor.

Six Simple Steps for Families:

  • Make physical activity a part of your family's routine.
  • Get to know your food. Read labels and look for culprits that compromise your health.
  • Always make fresh fruit and vegetables available for snacks.
  • Reduce TV, computer and electronic game time and increase family time.
  • Get your kids cooking, shopping and meal planning.
  • Send your children to school with healthy snacks and water.






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