kids_playing_ballWith the number of cases of obesity and diabetes rising among both children and adults, it is time to rethink how we can create a positive culture of health. Kids are busy. Families are busy. The work, school, and life balance can be difficult for families. In a fast-paced world, it is easy to default to the easy option. It is easy to choose the fast-food option; it is easy to entertain our kids (or ourselves) for hours with technology.  With about 36% of Kentucky children being overweight or obese and 42% not exercising regularly, how can we make being healthy the easy choice?

Communities can take action to increase physical activity and nutrition among kids and their families. Whether this is in schools, school districts, or community-wide organizations, increased physical activity and improved nutrition can help prevent long-term health complications, like obesity and diabetes. Community-led initiatives can effectively change health behaviors among children and build a culture of health.

Here are some opportunities for your community to promote healthy options for kids:

  • If you are looking for grants to improve nutrition and physical activities within schools or a school district, check out School Grants for Healthy Kids.
  • If you are a local education agency or a community-based organization trying to improve physical education in your school system, this Physical Education Program grant could be for you.
  • If you are looking to promote local food (LFPP) or farmers markets (FMPP) as healthy food options, the USDA has two opportunities for you: LFPP and FMPP.

Let’s make healthy choices easy choices for our kids and communities.