February marks American Heart Month, a time when organizations like the American Heart Association lead the charge in promoting healthy lifestyles. While this month serves as a vital launching pad for education on heart disease and stroke prevention, the goal is to build habits that last far beyond the leap year.
The secret to a healthy heart often starts in the teen years. By establishing positive routines early, young people can build a foundation for a lifetime of strength and energy.
Small Steps, Big Family Impact: Success is a team sport! Set realistic goals by involving the whole family in the planning process. By choosing changes that fit your unique lifestyle and taking gradual steps, you'll see significant results over time.
Better Nutrition: Promote lasting health by filling your child’s plate with whole grains, lean protein, and colorful produce. You can make a huge impact by limiting sugary drinks and processed "convenience" foods whenever your schedule allows!
Move More, Scroll Less: Teens should aim for 60 minutes of activity daily! Whether it’s a brisk walk, a school sport, or simply playing outside, moving more and sitting less is key to their physical and mental well-being. Boost their energy by encouraging physical activity while keeping an eye on total screen time. Every step counts!
Stay Proactive: The Yearly Exam: A quick annual visit can make a lifetime of difference. Ask your healthcare provider to monitor your child's BMI, blood pressure, and blood levels (glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides). These metrics provide a clear picture of their health, allowing you to address concerns early and follow professional guidance with confidence.
Healthy Lungs for Life: A smoke-free environment is one of the best gifts you can give your children. Make it a rule to never smoke around them, and keep an open dialogue with your teens about the risks of tobacco. Your influence is their best defense.
Positive Vibes Only Promoting health should feel like a win, not a workout! Keep the conversation upbeat and avoid framing healthy habits as "rules." Pro tip: Try to reward positive behavior with quality time or fun activities rather than treats to build a healthier relationship with food.
We’re Here to Help. Your family’s health and well-being are our top priorities. If you have questions, concerns, or need assistance securing food or healthcare, please reach out to our Certified School Nurse, Rachel Griel, at rgriel@basd.net or 814-355-5466 ext. 5005
Consider:
Participating in National Wear Red Day on February 6, 2026, to end heart disease and stroke in women.
References
CDC. (2022, October 18). High blood pressure in kids and teens. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.https://www.cdc.gov/ bloodpressure/youth.htm
Health, C. (n.d.). 10 ways to keep your child’s heart healthy. Children’s Health. Retrieved January 4, 2023, from https://www.childrens.com/ health-wellness/10-ways-to-keep-your-childs-heart-healthy
Howerton, C. (2020, February 3). Join us in raising awareness for these causes in february. National Health Council. https://nationalhealthcouncil.org/ blog/join-us-in-raising-awareness-for-these-causes-in-february/
McCarthy, C. (2022, May 26). Heart-healthy habits for children and teens lengthen lives. Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/ heart-healthy-habits-for-children-and-teens-lengthen-lives-202205262753
Please continue to turn in the required physical and dental forms to the school.
All 6th-grade students are required to have a record of a physical exam, and all 7th-grade students are required to have a record of a dental exam on file at the school.
A physical or dental exam performed by your child's personal health care provider, completed 12 months before the start of school or any time during this school year, will meet the requirement. The physicals can be performed at your family doctor's office or any walk-in clinic.
If you need either of these forms, click here, or your provider can print a copy from their system. You don’t need our form. If you need any of these forms sent home with your student, call the nurse’s office at (814) 355-5466 ext 5005 or email me at rgriel@basd.net.
You may return the form to the school nurse via email (rgriel@basd.net), fax 814-353-5332 or drop it off at the office. If you have an exam scheduled, please let me know the date of the physical or dental exam so I can be on the lookout for the form.
COUNT DOWN…..
I still need:
Physicals for 87 6th-grade students
Dentals for 124 7th-grade students