Back to School: A Fresh Start for Healthy Kids and a Healthy Planet
Back to school is more than academics, it's the perfect opportunity to invest in your child's total wellness. At the Life Time Foundation, we believe every child should have access to nutritious food, physical movement, and local green spaces.
Youth Movement
The Life Time Foundation's Youth Movement pillar champions physical activity programs because kids who move regularly learn better, sleep better, and develop stronger bodies and minds. Physical activity plays a critical role in childhood, helping children develop lifelong habits that support their social, emotional, physical, and cognitive well-being. Schools offer a unique opportunity with built-in schedules and community support for active lifestyles.
Youth Nutrition
The Life Time Foundation's Youth Nutrition pillar works to eliminate ingredients of concern from school meals. Nutritious, minimally processed food helps children thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally. Public school food programs offer one of the most effective ways to improve children's nutrition nationwide by providing healthier, more delicious meals. This school year, advocate for healthier cafeteria options and examine what's on your child's plate.
Healthy Planet
The Life Time Foundation's Healthy Planet pillar supports forestation, conservation, food forests, and local green spaces because environmental health and access is directly linked to kids' wellbeing. Children who grow up connected to nature become environmental stewards. Every child deserves access to healthy outdoor spaces where they can learn, play, and thrive. Encourage your school to incorporate outdoor learning, environmental projects, and sustainability initiatives.
Why It Matters
These three focus areas are interconnected: active kids are better nourished and more engaged. Nourished kids have energy to move and learn. Children who respect nature become healthier adults. Back to school is the perfect moment to advocate for movement programs, quality nutrition, and outdoor learning in your child's school.
How You Can Help
As a parent or community member, you have power. This school year:
Advocate for quality physical education and movement programs
Champion healthier school meal options in your child's cafeteria
Support outdoor learning and environmental initiatives
Partner with schools and organizations working on youth wellness
The Life Time Foundation believes that when we invest in our children's total health and wellness we're investing in a healthier future for everyone.
