Let's Get Moving Denver!

September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. According to recent studies, one in 3 children in the United States are overweight or obese. Childhood obesity puts kids at risk for health problems that were once seen only in adults, like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.The good news? Childhood obesity can be prevented. Communities, and families can work together to create opportunities for kids to eat healthier and get moving!

So what can we as parents and members of the community do to help keep our kiddos healthy? Start with small changes! Try keeping fresh fruit ready and available to grab easily when a snack is needed. Encourage schools to serve healthy snacks and put "healthy food only" policies into place when it comes to school parties, lunches, etc. Encourage outside play and get moving with the kids! Play a game of tag or encourage relay races and give out inexpensive dollar store prizes. Grab a frisbee or a kite and head to the park.

Another way to help is by spreading awareness. Consider adding information about obesity prevention to your community newsletter.Tweet about National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. Share it on FaceBook or Host a community event where families can be active while learning about local health resources.Become a partner of We Can!, a national movement to help children ages 8 to 13 stay at a healthy weight.