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School

Make Activity Policy!

Teachers have a lot of pressure to meet a series of competing requirements during the school day. Making wellness and activity part of a school’s policy gives teachers permission to get active with their students while still meeting academic demands.

“I like the fact that it’s a policy — therefore when I come out here (to walk with students), I don’t feel like the staff is upset with me for coming out.” Teacher, Campbell Ridge Elementary School, Alexandria, Ky.

School-based policies to increase student physical activity establish formal and informal rules for the entire school community. Many teachers, coaches, and administrators inspire kids to get active, but widespread cultural change usually begins with policy.

Learn more about school wellness policy from the National Alliance for Nutrition and Activity (NANA)

Action Tips for your School

  • Get Moving – Implement Take 10! activity breaks, or a similar program, to reward students and promote daily physical activity at school inside and outside the classroom.
  • Fuel Up Smart – Eliminate unhealthy snacks and drinks for birthdays, classroom parties, fundraisers and snack bars at sporting events. Substitute healthy alternatives like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and water, or non-food fundraisers and rewards.
  • Keep It Fun – Reward kids with physical activity rather than sweet treats.
  • Involve Everyone – Create a wellness policy at your school that promotes physical activity and healthy food at your school. Make sure that students, teachers, coaches, administrators and parents understand that the policy is good for everyone.

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