First Lady, Michelle Obama developed a nationwide campaign called “Let’s Move” encouraging kids to be active and eat smart in an effort to overcome childhood obesity.  Over the past three decades, childhood obesity rates in America have tripled, and today, nearly one in three children ages 2-19 are overweight or obese.  As a result, one-third of all children born in 2000 or later will suffer from diabetes at some point in their lives; many other will face chronic obesity-related health problems like heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer, and asthma.

The initiative launched on February 9, 2010, calls on schools to help solve the epidemic this generation is suffering from.  By taking part, you'll help kids form healthy habits and reap the added benefit of more attentive students.

Below are 15 fresh ideas to support Mrs. Obama’s Let’s Move Campaign in an effort to get kids moving.

1.    Walk the Walk

2.    Get creative with awards

3.    Avoid linking punishment to physical activity

4.    Curb cupcakes

5.    Offer new, healthy foods

6.    Take a break to move

7.    Incorporate physical activity into your lesson plans

8.    Give healthy homework

9.    Weave lessons about nutrition across disciplines

10. Go outside

11. Raise funds without food

12. Say cheers to water

13. Ask kids to keep a food log

14. Fuel up at snack time

15. Be a role model 

Check out this article on how Wilkinson Elementary School encourages their students to support Mrs. Obama new Let’s Move Campaign.  Our staff at School Announcement believes the steps you take to improve your own overall health may send the most powerful message of all to students!  What steps is your institution taking to help fight the obesity challenge?!?