TONAWANDA, N.Y. — There's a new approach to student wellness that's helping students at Hoover Elementary School. The school launched a Fit Lab. This space is dedicated to promoting physical activity, nutrition, and mental well-being.
It's part of a partnership with Independent Health's Fitness for Kids Challenge.
In the Fit Lab, students engage in interactive lessons about the importance of taking care of their bodies and minds. There are a few goals including helping children understand healthy choices.
"We know that kids who are active, eat right, and get enough sleep perform better throughout the day," said Carrie Meyer, the Executive Director of Independent Health.
The program has a 92510 + YOU challenge. It encourages children to set those healthy goals and healthy habits. The habits include:
- 9 hours of sleep each night
- 5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day
- 2 hours or less of screen time
- 1 hour of physical activity
- 0 sugary drinks on most days
You being your best self.
The Fit Lab isn't only about getting adequate exercise, but it's also about reflection.
"What are you doing to make sure you get nine hours of sleep? What's your bedtime routine like? Are you eating a nutritious breakfast and shutting down TV at a reasonable time?" Meyer said.
For teachers it's about creating habits that will stick with them for life.
"If you see kids 20 years from now, they'll remember what they did in elementary gym class. It makes an impact on them," gym teacher Heather Ratka said, adding "We're creating habits early in life, and those habits extend to their families and communities. It's truly rewarding."
This is the seventh year that Hoover Elementary has participated in the Fitness for Kids Challenge.