Require Fitness and Nutrition Education in Every Public Elementary School

Childhood obesity is a major public health challenge in the United States, increasing children's long-term risks of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic health conditions. Prevention should begin early, before unhealthy habits become difficult to change.

We call on every state to require public elementary schools to provide a comprehensive Fitness and Nutritional Wellness Program for all students.

The program should provide age-appropriate regular opportunities for physical activity and structured nutrition and wellness education that helps children:

• understand the importance of regular physical activity;

• develop healthy and sustainable eating habits;

• learn the basics of nutrition, including balanced meals, portion awareness, and healthy food choices;

• understand how nutrition, exercise, sleep, and other daily habits affect physical and mental health; and

• build lifelong skills for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.