Changing the Scene launches Web page

Since 2003, Changing the Scene, UNH Cooperative Extension's school wellness initiative, has worked with school personnel in 403 New Hampshire schools and five Head Start programs, to help the schools improve their overall nutrition and fitness environment.

Based on a U.S. Department of Agriculture program, Changing the Scene works by enlisting school nurses, school lunch personnel, teachers and administrators to survey and improve the entire school environment, from school cafeteria meals to snacks served at classroom birthday celebrations, from expanding exercise opportunities for students and staff to reaching out with health and fitness messages to parents and the general public.

Three-quarters of participating schools have already taken significant steps that include buying fitness equipment, starting before-school walking programs, adding nutrition education to the curriculum, and developing newsletters to send home to parents.

Parents, educators, healthcare professionals and others who want to learn more about this health promotion effort, please stop by our Changing the Scene Web pages, where you'll find success stories from participating schools, sample newsletters, curriculum materials, tips on improving children's nutrition and increasing physical activity, and more