HI Events & Services - 4th Grade Challenge

With funding from Heartland Health and a grant from the American Heart Association, the 4th Grade Challenge has seen much success in it flagship year. Based on a point system, participating students receive "points" for participating in health-related activities. 4th grade students were selected because experts say they are socially and statistically the right age:

Heartland physicians and the Wellness staff visit the schools twice a month to provide education on exercise, health and nutrition. Students are also invited to out-of-school activities including a kickball tournament and a holiday party. Students receive "4" points for successfully completing activities ranging from eating fruits and vegetables to family exercise. They receive double points if a parent or guardian participates. Students redeem the points for prizes during the challenge.

"We chose 4th grade students because the research demonstrates this is the age we could have the most influence … it is when children begin making decisions for themselves," say Jane Schwabe, MD, Heartland Cardiothoracic Surgery.