Children’s Health
To promote the health of our children is to lay the groundwork for the future of our state. Parents and children are inundated with unhealthy food options, which take center stage in marketing and advertising efforts aimed at children and youth.
Nearly 15% of North Dakota’s high schoolers are categorized as obese, and this number has been trending upwards over the last decade. All children and youth deserve to have their nutrition needs met and to live actively by running, playing, and participating in sports. And, we need our communities to help build health-promoting environments for children.
Active Living
We know that physical activity plays a crucial role in health. Our children and youth should be able to enjoy activities like participating in sports, riding bikes, and playing with their friends and families.
Screen time
Excessive screen time can prevent active living and harm health and wellbeing by isolating our children and youth, keeping their bodies inactive and their brains unfocused. Currently, 72% of North Dakota middle schoolers spend three or more hours per day on their screens, not counting schoolwork.
healthy food access
Access to healthy foods is essential to making progress in our children’s health. A balanced diet with nutritious food is key to preventing serious diseases like cardiovascular disease, hypertension, type II diabetes, some types of cancer, and osteoporosis.
