Obesity Concerns Rise

04/04/2012

Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope. Crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring, those ripples build a current which can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance.
Robert F. Kennedy

"As early childhood educators and advocates, we are daily witnesses to the difficulties that challenge overweight children," observed Joyce Anderson in her article in the Beginnings Workshop unit, "Food and Young Children," in which she offered ten strategies for addressing childhood obesity.

Recent news underlines the importance of early childhood programs addressing obesity. A new report from the Centers for Disease Control in the journal, Cancer, attributes a rise in cancer due to obesity and inactivity. Even though the incidence of cancer is declining overall, there is an increase in the numbers of cancer cases associated with excess weight and sedentary lifestyle.

According to the report, about 1/3 of adults in the U.S. are obese (30 or more pounds over a healthy weight). The report concludes, "Maintaining a healthy weight and getting sufficient exercise may be among the most important ways to prevent cancer."

Introducing BookFlix®, an online literacy resource that pairs fictional video storybooks from Weston Woods with related nonfiction eBooks. BookFlix is a fun way for early readers to practice reading skills and build knowledge. Start a free trial today!

Natural Preschool Playgrounds - Create your natural playground with The Adventurous Child - 10% off nature products ordered by 5/5/12 - www.adventurouschild.com

For more information about Exchange's magazine, books, and other products pertaining to ECE, go to www.ccie.com.