April 18th, 2012 Zoe...Obviously
At my school, we have a club called “The Diversity Club”. We don’t only focus on welcoming our peers to different races and ethnic backgrounds, we also focus on serious subject happening today. Cyber bullying, bullying, keeping our school fit and active, getting ourselves and our school involved in our community, are some of the many things we do in Diversity Club. If your school has a diversity club, I think you should definitely join. It may not do all of the things I listed, however it’s good to get your school involved in things going on, and make them aware that it’s fun to learn about people’s backgrounds and where they come from.
For example, the diversity club that I am a member of is hosting an ethnic food week at our school. We’ll be making different foods from all over the world, to celebrate people’s backgrounds. We are having a bake sale to raise money for supplies that will be provided by the activist group “Invisible Children” to go to Uganda for the Kony children. We are also going to be sponsoring the new movie “Bully” when it hits our small town’s theater, and as a group, we will go see it the day it comes out.
We make posters with slogans on them about eating healthy, accepting different backgrounds, and bullying, and hang them up around our school. We even create skits that are presented to the school that have to do with different problems that teenagers in high school are facing, like peer pressure, relationships, etcetera.
All in all, diversity club is a good way to express to your school that you care about what’s going on, and you want to get your school to feel the same way. Your able to express how you feel about different situations, and you end up getting involved in some pretty cool stuff. So maybe think about joining your school’s diversity club, or make one of your own. You could be making a big difference in your school.
Talk to you guys later! This is Zoe…Obviously…signing off!
Posted in Community Activities, Education, Schools, Uncategorized | No Comments »
April 1st, 2012 Zoe...Obviously
Degrassi: New Beginnings
Many of my peers tell me that they wish high school was like the popular television series “Degrassi.” But the truth is, I doubt everyone REALLY wants their school to be just like Degrassi High. Middle-schoolers that may watch the show might wonder if “Degrassi” is what high school is going to be like for them.
The truth is, not everything that happens on “Degrassi” actually takes place in high school today. On the show,something dramatic is happening every minute, and for most highschools, that’s not the case. It all depends on the environment you live in, and the group of friends that surround you.
Many of the wild things that you see on on the show are examples of things that may happen to you or your peers throughout your years of highschool. I will warn you that there will be many temptations and situations that arise that people may pressure you to take part of. However, if you stick with the right crowd and avoid the coaxing,this should not be an issue for you.
Some of the dramatic instances are over exaggerated,so don’t worry about encountering big problems like ones that are given in the show. I’m not saying there isn’t going to be drama in the future for you, but you have to dowhatever you think is right to handle the situation without hurting yourself or others.
I will admit, “Degrassi” is an addicting show. However, if you’re wondering if that’s what high school is really like for the average teenager, you’ll realize that if you lived in a school like that, it could most likely affect your life in a very negative way.
Talk to you guys later! This is Zoe…Obviously…signing off!
Posted in Education, Kids and TV | No Comments »
March 26th, 2012 admin
Anyone can act as a positive mentor to others who have low self-esteem, and self-confidence! Even teens can encourage their peers to fight obesity.
Many teens are unhappy with their weight, and one out of three of those teens in the U.S. are obese. Those extra pounds can put them at risk for some very serious health problems. Many overweight teens also get teased which may lead to depression.
Teenagers that support and encourage their peers to lose weight could help them to control a healthy weight. It’s good to motivate them to eat right, and exercise daily. Even though they might reject at first, do not give up trying to help your peers be as healthy as can be!
Written by MECKids Student Ambassador Zoe O
Posted in Bullying, Education, Peer Pressure | No Comments »
March 11th, 2012 Zoe...Obviously
To most kids, when we talk about our weight, we think of our appearance instead of how healthy we actually are. So what would we think if we had the responsibility to actually run a gym class?
Most teens would probably say that they would do five to ten minutes of light exercise, such as pushups, sit ups, etc. Then, for the remainder of the period, you would play a certain sport of your choice, such as football, basketball, and etc. It would probably be held like a regular gym class; however, we would find ways to make it fun so that it wouldn’t seem like just another class. Even though many of us act like exercise is not just about improving our appearance, many of us do realize it is important to be healthy both inwardly and outwardly!
Contributor:
Student Ambassador: Zoe…Obviously
Posted in Education, Fitness, Health, Schools, Teachers, Uncategorized | No Comments »
March 5th, 2012 admin
Weight loss will be more successful if people are willing to change their unhealthy habits, and replace them with healthy behaviors. Dieting is not the answer to weight loss because it creates temporary eating patterns, so you only get temporary results. So here’s the question most people with weight issues ask themselves: What is the best way to drop excess weight??
In order to maintain a healthy weight, there are a few of things you must do:
1. Exercise!
Reaching a healthy weight requires regular physical activity. Exercising helps burn calories and builds muscle, which makes you feel good and helps keep the weight off. Try to increase your daily level activity by walking your dog or riding your bike.
2. Watch your portions!
Being aware of portion distortion will help you keep the weight off. Most portion sizes are a lot bigger than they used to be, which means you are consuming a lot of extra calories that you don’t really need.
3.Stop drinking those sugary drinks!
A key factor in weight gain is drinking sugary beverages like sodas and juice. It’s best to choose smaller portions when drinking these beverages. Or skip having a Coke with lunch and dinner. Treat sugary drinks like they are a treat and have them occasionally.
Luckily, it is never too late to make changes that can control your weight and the health problems it may cause. Build your way up to big changes by making small ones. And never be afraid to ask for help!
Written by MECKids Student Ambassador Zoe
Posted in Education, Fitness, Health, meckids, Obesity, Schools | No Comments »
December 13th, 2011 admin
It’s hard to believe that 2011 is coming to an end already. Where has this year gone? As it comes to an end it’s time for us to reflect on everything that has transpired throughout the year!
Let’s take a look at trends that have come and gone regarding Childhood obesity in 2011.
What’s IN!!!
Educating Kids on healthy eating |
What’s OUT???
Letting Kids Eat Junk Food |
| Exciting PE classes that use social media and a
Variety of programs from Zumba to YOGA |
Boring Health & PE Classes
that don’t engage students |
| Video games that make you move like the
Wii & EA Sports |
Video games played on the couch |
| Community Involvement with kids focused on
campaigns such as Let’s Move & MECKids
You Gotta MOVE Events |
Schools go it alone to fight
childhood obesity |
| The Food Plate |
My Pyramid |
What do you think? Drop us a line and share your ideas on getting kids fit in the New Year!
Posted in Education, Events, Fitness, Health, meckids, Obesity, Schools, Sports, Teachers, Training, Uncategorized, Yoga | No Comments »
August 11th, 2011 admin
Can you believe it? Summer is almost over. Your kids will be heading back to school within the next couple of weeks. I know there are some kids who eagerly await the chance to get back to school but most tend to dread the end of summer. Before the summer is over why not plan a few fun activities that you and your family can do together before the bustle of school begins.
1. Go Camping. You don’t even need to leave the house for this. If you have a tent pop it up in the backyard and make your own personal campsite. If you don’t have a tent or if you prefer to stay away from the bugs build a tent inside all you need is a few blankets and some cushions. Make it a no tv or computer night and enjoy the night with your family!
2. Go to your local zoo. I know I always loved going to the zoo as a kid. It was always so exciting to see such incredible animals that you don’t get to see on a typical day. You can even make it a learning experience. Have each kid pick out an animal and then at the end of the day have everyone share some facts about their animal of choice. Your kids will love hearing all about the other animals and you can add a fun element to the day.
3. Go for a bike ride or a hike. Take advantage of the weather and hit the trails while you still can. Explore a new park in your area or ride your bikes in a new neighborhood. Show your kids that exercising and being outside can be fun!
4. Have a movie night. The twist is instead of picking a typical movie pull out old family videos or make a fun slideshow with some family pictures. Pop some popcorn and get ready for an evening of laughter. You and your family will have so much fun remembering all the fun you’ve had together as a family.
5. Set up a family soda shop. You’ll first have to explain what a soda shop is to your kids. =) Tell your kids they can make a sundae with whatever toppings they want on it. You can also make some classic root beer floats. There’s nothing wrong with a little indulgence once in awhile. Enjoy!
By trying to get in these 5 things before summer ends, you and your family are bound to make more memories. You’ll have had the chance to enjoy some time as a family before the craziness of school begins. You and your kids will be ready to take the school year head on. Make these last few weeks count!
Posted in Education, Fitness, Health, meckids, Obesity, Schools, Sports, Teachers | No Comments »
August 2nd, 2011 admin
Summer is already winding down, so this will be our last blog in this series. We are going to take a look at things to do in the cool city of Atlanta. Atlanta is one of those cities that people forget how amazing it is.
Here are a few things you can do this summer with your family in Atlanta:
1. Fourth Saturday Family Fun Day- Centennial Olympic Park- 4th Saturday of each month May-September
http://atlmomsonthemove.com/2011/05/fourth-saturday-family-fun-days-in-centennial-park/
Every 4th Saturday throughout the summer you can enjoy games, educational programming, concerts, and prizes at Centennial Olympic Park. It starts at noon and runs until 4pm. This family event is free. Your family will love all the different activities that are offered. There are only 2 left this year so get your family there before it’s over.
2. Kid’s Workshop at Home Depot- Home Depot’s across the country- 1st Saturday every month all year round
http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ContentView?pn=Kids_Workshops&langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10053&cm_mmc=thd_marketing-_-vanity-_-kidsworkshop-_-LP&locStoreNum=159
Your kids can learn how to make some very cool things. They also will learn tool safety and different do-it-yourself skills. This program is absolutely free. Your kids will be beaming with pride when they show everyone their newest project.
3. Movies in Central Park- Central Park- Every Thursday May-September
http://www.atlanticstation.com/free-summer-movie-series.php
Every Thursday at sundown you and your family can head to Central Park to see a free movie. Your kids will love the chance to watch their favorite movies outside. Make sure you check what is showing because you might not want your kids seeing them all. Pop some popcorn and head over to Central Park for a fun movie under the stars.
4. Fountain of Rings- Centennial Olympic Park- Daily shows 12:30pm, 3:30pm, 6:30pm and 9:00pm
http://www.centennialpark.com/index.php/things-to-do/fountain-of-rings
The fountains are situated in the center of Centennial Olympic Park. These fountains were originally built for the Olympics in 1996. They are one of the most visited sights in Atlanta. You and your kids a like will love this brilliant light show. Don’t miss this beautiful sight!
5. The New World Of Coca-Cola- Coca-Cola Factory- Open year round
http://www.worldofcoca-cola.com/
You and your family will love this fun-filled factory tour. There truly is something for everyone on this tour. Your kids will have so much fun trying flavors from all over the world and getting their picture taking with the famous Coca-Cola Polar Bear. This is a tour that they will tell their friends about. It’s a little on the pricier side but it is well worth the extra money. Head over to the Coca-Cola Factory and immerse your self in an American staple.
Atlanta is an incredible city both for kids and adults. Don’t miss out on experiencing some of their amazing attractions. Whether you live here or are planning to visit, Atlanta has so much to offer.
Posted in Community Activities, Education, Fitness, Health, meckids | No Comments »
November 12th, 2010 admin
I’m so happy its Friday! I’m driving down to Virginia Beach and the fall colors are truly glorious here in Virginia, it even makes I-95 seem not so grueling a drive. I’m attending the Virginia Assoc for Health PE, Recreation & Dance (I know its a mouth full).
I’m really excited to hear the special speakers like Bill Sells from SGMA & former NFL player John Booty share their perspective on the childhood obesity issue and what part professional sports can play to support the community and schools on this issue. MECKids is sponsoring the President’s VIP reception Friday night with the special guest speakers so I can’t wait to meet all the new attendees.
I’ll be sure to share the highlights from the conference with all of you (especially my teachers & students) who couldn’t be with us for this year’s conference! Have a fabulous fall weekend and be sure to check back this weekend for updates from the conference.
Posted in Education, meckids, Schools, Teachers, Technology, Uncategorized | No Comments »
October 30th, 2010 admin
Is your school short on funding? Would you like to bring MECKids.com to your school but not sure how? Learn how to apply for a physical education, nutrition and technology grant and bring MECKids.com interactive health and fitness to your curriculum today. Contact Fran Bishop for more details: franb@afmsco.com or 866-659-3400.
Posted in Education, Fitness, Food, Uncategorized | No Comments »
At my school, we have a club called “The Diversity Club”. We don’t only focus on welcoming our peers to different races and ethnic backgrounds, we also focus on serious subject happening today. Cyber bullying, bullying, keeping our school fit and active, getting ourselves and our school involved in our community, are some of the many things we do in Diversity Club. If your school has a diversity club, I think you should definitely join. It may not do all of the things I listed, however it’s good to get your school involved in things going on, and make them aware that it’s fun to learn about people’s backgrounds and where they come from.
