Resources
Centers for Disease Control Physical Activity Guidelines for Children and Adolescents
In 2008, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, which provide science-based recommendations to help persons aged 6 years or older improve their health through physical activity
Local School Wellness Policy Resources
This comprehensive set of model nutrition and physical activity policies1 is based on nutrition science, public health research, and existing practices from exemplary states and local school districts around the country.
How can I tell if my child is overweight or obese?Â
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends the use of Body Mass Index (BMI) to screen for overweight and obesity in children and teens aged 2 through 19 years.Â
What is BMI?Â
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a number calculated from a child's weight and height. BMI is a reliable indicator of body fatness for most children and teens.
How is BMI used?Â
BMI is used as a screening tool to identify possible weight problems for children. Although BMI is used to screen, it is not a diagnostic tool.
The CDC's guidelines for measuring children's height and weight at homeÂ
To measure height accurately at home to calculate BMI-for-age.
Choose the Right Foods
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Choosing Foods for Your FamilyÂ
GO, SLOW, and WHOA Foods An easy way to learn about which foods are lower in fat and calories is to think in terms of GO, SLOW, and WHOA. Downloadable charts, fun family recipes, tips for eating out, and much more are all available from the US Department of Health and Human Services National Heart Lung and Blood Institute website.Â
Dietary Guidelines for America: US Department of Agriculture
The President's Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition is a committee of volunteer citizens who advise the President through the Secretary of Health and Human Services about opportunities to develop accessible, affordable and sustainable physical activity, fitness, sports and nutrition programs for all Americans regardless of age, background or ability. The Council's mission is to engage, educate and empower all Americans to adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity and good nutrition. For more information about the Council and its members, visit https://health.gov/pcsfn. In addition to its presidential advisory role, the Council promotes and maintains the President's Challenge Physical Activity and Fitness Awards program (President's Challenge) which encourages all Americans to include physical activity - 30 minutes per day for adults and 60 minutes per day for youth - in their daily lives. For more information about the President's Challenge programs, visit https://health.gov/pcsfn.Â
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