With the obesity rate among children somewhere above 16%, many schools are taking action by implementing initiatives to fight childhood obesity. Many schools have cut down on the high-calorie, high fat, high sodium foods offered in their cafeteria and now offer fresh, healthier options. They’ve also removed the sugar-filled drinks and junk food from vending machines.
Schools in more than eight states now require the schools to send parents BMI report cards. The schools keep tabs on the height and weight of their students and if a student's BMI goes above a healthy level, a “health report card” goes to their parents. Some opponents say this is an invasion of privacy and can hurt a child’s self-esteem. While proponents say that childhood obesity is a public health concern and goes beyond privacy issues.
And some schools in England are even trialing Nintendo Wii games to engage children to be more active. Because video games have gained so much popularity among kids, Wii's may be the first step to beginning a fitness program for sedentary kids.
So what are your thoughts? Any schools in your area implementing programs to combat childhood obesity?
Justin
