Putting the Heart in Education
Did you know that the human heart beats 100,000 times a day? This often under-recognized powerhouse fuels our bodies to move, think, feel, and learn.
But the heart can also be at risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), chronic diseases or noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are one of the greatest threats to global health and are the leading cause of deaths globally. NCDs cover a wide range of chronic diseases and conditions, including heart diseases, as well as cancer, diabetes, and asthma.
While not all NCDs are preventable, many are connected to health and lifestyle choices. By beginning education and conversations about heart health at a young age, kids can begin to take charge of their health and form the habits needed to combat the rise in NCDs.
With a focus on helping people live healthier, fuller lives, Abbott understands the connection between early education and health outcomes. Abbott and its foundation, the Abbott Fund, joined forces with Discovery Education to create Future Well Kids, an educational initiative teaching kids about personal wellness.
Geared for kids ages 10-13, Future Well Kids provides lessons and activities for educators, students, and families encouraging healthy habits both in the classroom and at home. The no-cost, standards-aligned content teaches students about what noncommunicable diseases are, while showing how exercise and nutrition can help prevent them. Students learn the science behind NCDs through interactive activities that connect their physical fitness to everyday activities.
In finding a creative way for students to discover just how incredible the human heart is, the Future Well Kids’ “Love Your Heart” virtual field trip was created – no permission slips required! During this 20-minute on-demand interactive video, students can explore the fascinating structure and function of the heart with Abbott scientists and doctors – and learn how 3x U.S. Olympian Lolo Jones keeps her own heart healthy.
Take the learning even further with new lesson plans providing educators everything they need to talk about:
- How people around the world use food and exercise to combat NCDs.
- Where essential nutrients come from and their impact on the human body.
- The importance of exercise and how much is needed to be healthy.
Families can also explore what healthy living means with videos, information sheets, activities, and more!
Future Well Kids gives teachers and families tools to help inspire kids to form healthy habits today – an important step in building a healthier future. Learn more today at futurewellkids.com.
