Brain boosts: active ways to improve student achievement

When you think about ways to improve student achievement, does providing students with physical activity come to mind? It should. Active students have better concentration, fewer behavior problems, and higher performance on reading, writing, and math tests.    Image from Active Living Research’s “Active Education: Growing Evidence on Physical Activity and Academic Performance,” based on research by Dr….

Brain scans pre and post activity

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Trends in physical education: active students, lifetime fitness

Studies show that too many students spend too much time standing around in P.E. class. Innovative P.E. instructors are changing their curriculum to keep students active: Less emphasis on competitive team sports More emphasis on fun and lifetime fitness skills More focus on engaging all students, regardless of athletic ability Increased tracking of individual physical…

Girl climbing on a wall

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Healthy trick or treating: how to limit Halloween candy and other tips

It is impractical—and unnecessary—to completely eliminate candy this Halloween. Experts say moderation is the key. But do you know how to limit Halloween candy in our super-sized culture? Here are some tips for healthy trick or treating, whether you’re handing out Halloween candy at home or escorting your kids around the neighborhood.  At your home: portion size…

Children trick or treating

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Nothing scary about these healthy Halloween ideas

Cooler temperatures, colorful changing leaves, hayrides, and the fun of dressing up for Halloween are four excellent reasons for hosting a party this month. You don’t need to load the buffet table with baked sweets and candy. These three healthy Halloween ideas are anything but scary:  Serve fruit and vegetables with creative flair.Put eyes on a…

Fruit designs for Halloween

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