Several times throughout the year, HCCPC members have gone to elementary schools in Weatherford ISD to teach the 5-2-1-0 principals. The students have fun talking about ways exercise makes them feel more energized and brainstorming new ways to get moving (walking a pet, playing tag, turn on the music and dance, jump rope, play Frisbee disc). Children have also talked about the negative feelings they have when engaged in too much screen time and have talked about better ways to spend their free time (get outside, start a craft, read a book, play board games).

The students have been introduced to new creative ideas to get their 5 fruits and veggies in each day, and have been invited to participate in cooking classes to encourage healthy eating at home. We emphasize that water is the best fuel for the body and that juice often contains sugar and isn’t a healthy drink. Overall, the lessons have been received with enthusiasm by parents, teachers, and students alike. 

Children take home colorful handouts with each lesson so that parents know what has been discussed. Our hope is that parents and kids can work together to make healthy changes at home that can last a lifetime. The 5-2-1-0 principal has made its way into our Cook Children’s Willow Park office as a catchy phrase to make children and adolescents aware of healthy nutrition and fitness as an important part of everyday life.