The Fourth Annual National Healthy Schools Day in Canada is fast approaching on April 24, 2012! This fantastic initiative gives Canadians schools an opportunity to address and celebrate the importance of healthy and happy environment among students, staff and any other members of the school community.

As you may be well aware, unhealthy living and inactivity have become somewhat of an epidemic in Canada. Three out of five children and youth (age 5 -17) are not active enough for optimal growth and development (Childhood Obesity Foundation). We are also aware that school air quality can be poor and many schools used toxic cleaning materials that students are exposed to. We need to come together to make positive change!

National Healthy Schools Day provides schools with the opportunity to participate in healthy living and healthy school environment projects. How can your school participate? Students can combine getting active and helping the environment by having a school yard clean up race. Or you could meet with staff and custodians and target toxic cleaning supplies and look for healthier alternatives. There are lots of great ideas! Take a look at this idea list developed by the Healthy Schools Day in Canada team.

Show your support of Healthy Schools Day in Canada by registering your project or initiative on the Project Registry List. For more information on Healthy Schools Day in Canada please visit http://www.casle.ca/HealthySchoolsDay/tabid/85/Default.aspx