In recognition of the mission of the Let’s Move! initiative, the Public Health Foundation’s (PHF) Learning Resource Center features products designed to educate individuals and organizations about childhood obesity and ways to combat this growing epidemic.

 

Since it began last year, Let’s Move! has set into motion countless projects all over the country to increase physical activity and improve nutrition among children.

School lunches, a major focus of the initiative, have undergone a massive overhaul as a result of Obama’s support. The HealthierUS Schools Challenge outlines strict food quality standards and requires participating schools to become involved in meal programs, physical activity opportunities, and nutrition education efforts. Additionally, the Chefs Move to Schools program has encouraged local chefs to become involved in developing school lunch menus to incorporate new cooking techniques and healthy recipes.

 

Legislators are also taking notice of Let’s Move! Congress passed the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, which aims to improve child health through a variety of nutrition and safety reforms. In addition, over 450 mayors and local officials have signed up for Let’s Move Cities and Towns. By doing this, they commit to taking significant actions to reduce childhood obesity, make healthy foods affordable and accessible, provide healthy foods in schools, and encourage physical activity. Even major corporations like Wal-Mart have jumped on the bandwagon by pledging to reduce the sugar, salt and fat in popular food products, while simultaneously lowering fruit and vegetable prices to make them affordable for all.

 

To support the Let’s Move! campaign’s anniversary, use LRC products to prevent childhood obesity in your community. Learn about factors that influence weight with the Childhood Obesity Video, and find out ways to eat healthier with the Think Fresh! Partnerships for Promotion of Vegetables and Fruits in Low-Income Communities Video.

 

Additionally, PHF has partnered with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to promote The Community Guide. This free resource outlines evidence-based findings and recommendations from the Task Force on Community Preventive Services on 18 public health topics, including obesity, nutrition, and physical activity. Visit The Community Guide for strategies to improve the health of children in your area.

 

Click here for more information about Let’s Move!