How can schools help to prevent and reduce obesity?

Teachers and school leaders know that healthy students learn best and that a malnourished child can't learn. And since autumn 2006, federal law has required every U.S. school district which participates in the federal school meal program to address that with a Wellness Policy.

Children learn most of their behavior from adults, so it is important that the adults in schools model making appropriate and healthy food choices. Parents can begin to work with their school systems toward creating a health-conscious learning environment by addressing issues such as

• Vending machines in school
• Fundraisers using food
• Classroom parties
• School lunch menus

Source: Dana Woldow "Do As I Say, Not as I Do: 5 Ways Schools Make Students Less Healthy"