A Local Health Department, Afterschool Providers and Community Stakeholders Collaborate to Improve Nutrition and Physical Activity in Afterschool Programs

Background- The growing network of after school programs can make a significant contribution to improving the health of children. The California Department of Education recommends that afterschool programs offer 30 to 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity. California Senate Bill 965 and 12 provide nutrition requirements for food and beverages sold anywhere on school campuses. However, many after school providers do not have the support or resources needed to implement these standards. Methods- Members of a countywide healthy eating and active living initiative formed the Afterschool Wellness Committee to increase awareness, compliance of nutrition and physical activity standards, and share best practices. A web-based survey was conducted to identify areas of need. The assessment pointed to the need for education resource sharing and tools among after school providers to implement these standards. Recently, the San Mateo County Health Department established a contract to support a county-wide network of afterschool providers in promoting healthy physical activity and nutrition environments by conducting trainings, site visits, assessments, and outreach. Results- A Healthy Apple Award program was developed to recognize after school programs that are committed to improving the food and physical activity opportunities provided in their programs. Nutrition workshops, physical activity trainings that focus on inclusive non- competitive physical activities, and on site consultations are offered to afterschool programs. The trainings, resources, and on-site consultations have become a county-wide training resource and communication network.