Students at Hoover Elementary have a new “laboratory” this year. But instead of exploring science experiments, this lab provides an opportunity to explore healthy habits that last a lifetime.
The new “Fit Lab” space is outfitted with artwork from the Independent Health Foundation’s Fitness for Kids Challenge, encouraging kids with colorful and engaging graphics to explore healthy habits including exercising, trying new fruits and vegetables, and accepting challenges - like getting enough sleep and limiting screen time.
"The FitLab provides a flexible and now kid-friendly space for students to learn functional knowledge and skills on wellness and health-related fitness,” said Heather Ratka, Wellness Coordinator and Hoover Elementary Physical Education teacher. “With a smaller learning environment, the instruction is more personalized and leads to more in-depth conversation. Additionally, our monthly Fitness for Kids program from the Independent Health Foundation helps support our Physical Education standards and learning outcomes."
Provided free by the Independent Health Foundation to 45 schools across all eight Western New York counties this academic year, the program focuses on the “9+5+2+1+0+YOU” formula:
- 9 hours of sleep a night
- 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables
- 2 hours or less on the computer, playing video games, or watching TV
- 1 hour or more of exercise
- 0 sugary drinks
- Being your best self
Hoover Elementary has participated in the Fitness for Kids Challenge since 2018 and has earned grants totaling $3,250.
“What is truly inspiring about the Fitness for Kids Challenge program is how it becomes part of daily life for students, teachers, and families,” said Carrie Meyer, executive director of Independent Health Foundation. “We know how critical it is not only to learn healthy habits at a young age, but to do so in a fun way. Hoover Elementary is a great example of how schools can invest in students' holistic health by not only teaching ways to take care of their bodies, but also by emphasizing good mental practices, including emotional awareness, friendship building, and goal-setting. That’s the heart of the Fitness for Kids Challenge.”
