When students are healthy, they are happier and more engaged in school and can achieve better results. Teaching our children and youth healthy habits early in life provides our children with the resources they need to be successful and lead healthy lives in the future.

Providing them with the information and encouragement they need to embrace healthy eating and physical activity is one of the best investments we can make in our young people. Which is why the Ontario government has implemented a number of initiatives to help make Ontario’s schools and students healthier.

With rising obesity levels, a trend towards physical inactivity and unhealthy food choices and an alarming number of young people being diagnosed with type two diabetes, Ontario’s Healthy Schools Recognition Program is a great way for schools to get students involved in planning activities that make their learning environment healthier.

It’s easy to participate: schools simply pledge to do a healthy activity. Over the last three years, more than 3,000 schools have been recognized by the Ontario government for taking on the challenge of making their school healthier.

The program is one initiative among many we have undertaken to make Ontario’s schools and students healthier.

Together with our partners in education and health, we have dropped trans fats from school menus, mandated daily physical activity in elementary schools, and recently announced an After-School Initiative. Offered in high-needs neighbourhoods throughout the province, the After-School Initiative is giving 15,500 youth the opportunity to get off the streets and learn about health and wellness.

To help improve the health of our children and youth, contact your local school to participate in the Healthy Schools Recognition Program – it’s an easy way to help. For some ideas on ways to participate, and to download an application form for the program, just visit www.ontario.ca/healthyschools.