As Child Health Day, a national event first proclaimed by President Calvin Coolidge in 1928, celebrates its 85th observance this year, the State of Tennessee has set apart a special week to focus on the health and well-being of its children. Child Health Week begins the first Monday of October and runs the entire week throughout the state. The goal is to encourage everyone to put the health and well-being of children first during the week, and every week in the year ahead. This recognition is an initiative from the Governor’s Children Cabinet, which is designed to coordinate, streamline and enhance initiatives across multiple departments to empower, educate and engage Tennessee families.
Child Health Week 2013 will focus on the many ways to help children have a healthy, productive future. In Knox County, TENNderCARE along with several community partners (the Knox County Health Department, Knox County Schools, Walgreens, Cherokee Health Systems, BlueCare TN, United Healthcare Community Plan and Safe Kids of Greater Knox Area) are hosting a variety of themed events all week:
Monday, October 7th - Celebrating Healthy Children
Join us for the Child Health Week Kick Off
Cherokee Health Systems, 2018 Western Ave., Knoxville, at 10 a.m.
Speakers include Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett and Knox County Health Department Director Dr. Martha Buchanan
Tuesday, October 8th - Safety
Whether they’re walking on a sidewalk or playing sports, encourage them to follow the rules and, if appropriate, wear protective gear like helmets and knee pads.
The Knox County Health Department will offer car seat safety classes on Tuesday, Oct. 8 at 10 a.m. To see if you’re eligible to attend or for more information, call the Knox County Health Department at 865-215-5170.
Click here for more safety tips for kids of all ages.
Wednesday, October 9th - Physical Activity
Regular physical activity helps children build strong bones, muscles and joints. It also decreases the risk of obesity. Appropriately, October 9 is National Walk to School Day. In Knox County, many elementary and middle schools are participating in this initiative to promote family involvement in physical activity.
Click here for a list of participating schools.
Click here to learn more about physical health.
Thursday, October 10th - Nutrition
To encourage families to make a healthy breakfast part of their routine, Knox County Schools will offer students free breakfast on Thursday, Oct. 10. They’re encouraging kids to “Stick to Breakfast” with a healthy version of French toast sticks.
Click here for some great healthy eating tips.
Friday, October 11th - Dental Health
Did you know that tooth decay is the #1 dental problem among preschoolers? Click here for tips on how to get that million-dollar smile.
Special weeklong activity:
In honor of Child Health Week, the Knox County Public Library will incorporate health-related books into regular story times across the county.
What can you do with your family, students or community in celebration of Child Health Week?
Click here to view tips, activities and resources to help our county’s children and families lead healthy lives and make good healthy choices. With the support of parents, grandparents, teachers, government officials, health care providers and communities, we can ensure a healthier future for our children.
