Learning the lessons to have a healthy heart
by Julie Matuszewski; photos courtesy of Timber Trail Elementary
Fourth grader Ari Griffin knows the importance of a healthy heart. She jumps in hope of inspiring other kids to take care of their hearts.
Timber Trail Elementary partnered with the American Heart Association (AHA) in February for Heart Month. The AHA’s mission is to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Each year, students participate in the American Heart Challenge, which not only gets students dancing, jumping and climbing over obstacles, but also discusses the importance of healthy nutrition. It also assists students in developing skills for a heart healthy lifestyle.
Third grader Willow Mauw shows what it takes to keep a healthy heart. She balances on walking stilts to get from one end of the gym to the other without falling in the “hot lava.”
According to the AHA, the latest studies show that more than 50% of U.S. children do not get the physical activity needed, and 1 in 5 children is obese. Money raised from the American Heart Challenge goes directly to scientific research designed to save lives. For 41 years, the AHA has supported local schools such as those in Castle Pines. Each year, local students grow with the program, understanding what it means to have a healthy heart and making adjustments to daily routines to ensure a healthy lifestyle.
Timber Trail Elementary fourth grade student Walter Bird jumps his way to a healthy heart.
