Books Teach Kids Healthy Habits

Elementary schools in Muskingum County are trying to combat childhood obesity.

A grant from Child Health and Family Services is providing new books for students.  Medical Director at the Zanesville-Muskingum County Health Department Dr. Vicki Whitacre said these books focus on healthy eating and physical fitness.

"This says ‘I’m an elephant, and I can stomp my feet.’  There are all kinds of different animals in this huge book that a teacher can use for an activity period in the morning," said Whitacre.

Whitacre said it’s important for children to learn healthy habits at a young age.  She said childhood obesity is a preventable problem.

"We need to limit screen time – computer and TV time," said Whitacre.  "Get them outside, get them active, particularly when the weather is good."

Whitacre said a stack of books will be delivered to each participating school sometime this month.