I agree that parents need to take the responsibility for their kids eating habits and physical activities. What I’m trying to emphasize, though, is the school’s responsibility according to the policies set by the State of NH dept of Education. The state requires 30 to 60 minutes of vigorous physical activity PER DAY! Let’s not muddy the waters here by bringing in some sort of moral relativism and compare ourselves to ourselves or some other bar that has been set low. Let’s strive to rise up to the overwhelming research that states the benefits of physical activity for kids throughout the day. What I’ve seen is a lot of EXCUSES as to why we can’t do something beneficial for our kids’ health and will increase their academic performance. I don’t think we need a major reformation here — I’ve offered some simple steps (and I’m not an authority here, but it seems to make sense) of light aerobic and strengthening exercises before and/or after a class. For example, if our kids did some vigorous aerobic activity at the end of their class, maybe aerobic dancing to music in place for five minutes, I think their mood will be elevated, their minds cleared and prepared for the next class. Does that sound easy to you?

Our kids have gym once a week, and when possible go out for recess. I didn’t have gym when I was in the lower grades. I will be attending this meeting, but I will be listening to how parents intend to take responsibity and get their kids moving.