Making Healthy Changes in YOUR Community

Perhaps it is my public health background, but I am committed to making change which is why I continue to work at Stanford, volunteer on the PTA board, implement a Coordinated School Health Program in our school district, advise local youth sports organization and serve in city government. 

I need to be in situations where I feel like I can make a difference, even in my small community. I believe that parents have a huge voice in creating these changes and collectively, these small victories can make a big impact towards creating a healthy environment for all kids. 

I want to encourage and empower parents to make changes in your communities. You have a strong voice and are in positions that can help support changes. For example, if you are a member of PTA and/or serve on the PTA board at your school, you can get a group of parents together to evaluate the school lunches, the treat/party policy, the PE program and the district's wellness policy.

Other ways you can make a difference:

• If you are a youth sports coach: Ask parents to bring only fruit and water to games. I still prefer no snacks, especially as kids get older. They are often on they way out to a meal after a game anyway. 
• If you have a child in youth sports, volunteer to be the snack parent and (with the coaches permission) implement a healthy snack  policy or tell parents that you and the coach decided you don't need snacks because they are usually going out to eat right after the game. I have found that most parents are actually RELIEVED to not have to worry about snacks.
• Talk to your child's teacher about alternative ideas to celebrate birthdays instead of food and treats. Again, MOST teachers are relieved. They find it to be a real pain to distribute birthday treats and then they have to deal with sugared up kids all day.
• Talk to the school principal about what the school treat policy is during the school day and at school events. 
• Talk to the Superintendent about the district's Wellness Policy. If it is outdated, as many are, offer to help create a task force to look at it more closely.
• Offer to be involved in organizing a school event (book fair, dance, jog a thon, etc.) and encourage healthy snacks. Find other parents who agree with your mission - they are out there - and there are more than you think.
• Instead of food fundraisers at your school (cookie dough, chocolates etc.) suggest a walk-a-thon or jog-a-thon instead. Not only are they great community events, they make a lot of money!

PARENTS: Do not underestimate your ability to make a strong 

impact that will result in positive 

changes for your own child and the community.

REMEMBER: parents, teachers, coaches and administrators  have a responsibility to teach children HOW to make healthy choices and support an environment that supports and encourages those choices!!