Championing
Health And Wellness in Kids (CHAWK) is a group of parents at Ashlawn Elementary School in
Arlington, Va., seeking to ensure, through a variety of ways, that children's health and
wellness is a central focus of the school day. In our work, we draw heavily from research,
which shows that healthy children are better learners, score higher marks on tests,
exhibit fewer behavioral problems in the classroom, and are, in general, more relaxed.
CHAWK News:
The Ashlawn community turned out in
strength for the 2008 CHAWK One-Mile Fun Run and Walk on a balmy Friday
evening, May 30, 2008. See the photos from
this event. See write-ups with photos of the
previous CHAWK Walk Fun Run & Walks: June
10, 2005, October 14, 2005, and June 2, 2006.
CHAWK is partnering with FitArlington this year. Join us in
the FitArlington Health and Wealth Challenge.
Arlington Challenged to a Healthier and Wealthier New
Year Ate too much? Spent too much? That’s the sobering realization for many after
the new year. But thanks to the inventive nature of Virginia Cooperative Extension you can
get back on track. Take the FitArlington Health and Wealth Challenge!
From February 24 to March 24, FitArlington challenges you
(and a group of friends, family or neighbors) to incorporate a variety of fiscally and
physically responsible behaviors into your life. Eat three servings of fruit or vegetables
a day; save your pocket change; motivate yourself to add steps by carrying a pedometer;
write down your expenses; eat breakfast. These are just a few of the small steps you can
take to a healthier body and finances. For every good deed you do, you and your team will
earn points. And the Arlington teams with the most points are eligible to win prizes,
recognition and a healthier and wealthier New Year. How can you not want to take the
challenge?
It’s easy, it’s fun…and it's free! To learn
the rules of the game go to www.arlingtonva.us/FitArlington
or come by a library or community center for a flyer. Got questions? Contact Jennifer Abel
at 703-228-6417 or jabel@vt.edu.
CHAWK hosted a PTA meeting on backpacks on Tuesday, February 5. Dr.
Marshall Dispenza, a local chiropractor, spoke about the dangers associated with children
carrying too heavy backpacks. He said children should not carry more than
10-15 percent of their body weight. He also demonstrated the right ways for children to
carry backpacks.
Our regular, recurring
CHAWK Events:
Fresh Fruit Fridays: Students are encouraged to
bring a fruit for snack every Friday.
First Feet Fridays: Students are encouraged to
walk or bike to school every Friday.
Walk and Bike to School Day: October 3 was Walk
and Bike to School Day for all Arlington schools.
