Quick Chat: Healthy Kids, Healthy Schools

Chances are good that most children who’ve enjoyed a summer break spent a good part of their time off engaged in some level of physical activity.  Whether traveling out on an adventure with family or friends, or involved in a summer camp that encouraged their mental and physical growth, or even spending time outside in the fresh, summer air, it’s a pretty good bet that many were more active than they will be once they’re back in school.

But it doesn’t have to be that way, and if Shelly Russell-Mayhew has a say on this subject, more and more students—both in the K-12 system and in post-secondary education--will be involved in learning more about a comprehensive school health model.

Russell-Mayhew, who holds a Werklund Professorship for her work in weight bias and the fields of education and health, has spearheaded a program at the Werklund School of Education aimed at physical activity, nutrition and positive social environments—the three components of a holistic health education program.  It’s called Health Champions, and as she explains in this Quick Chat, students in the Bachelor of Education Program are encouraged to participate.

Audio:

• Quick Chat (6:19)