Reversing CDC Youth Health Trends Starts in Lower School at St. Anne’s-Belfield

As students across the country settle into the new school year, adjusting to new routines and with communicable diseases already keeping pediatrician offices busy, St. Anne’s-Belfield Lower School is making health and wellness fun. 

During the week of Sept. 28, Lower School held its annual Wellness Week. Kindergarten through Grade 4 students learned about sleep, handwashing, personal boundaries, nutrition, mental health, and physical activity through bite-sized learning activities. 

“We want every child to find a way to take care of themselves and others.”

— Brad Connors, K – 6 P.E. Teacher and Department Chair

Monday kicked off with division-wide yoga outdoors on the Frank Addonozio Turf Field. The rest of the week included lessons on hygiene and mental wellness appropriate for each grade level. Comedic skits organized and performed by the Physical Education faculty kept learning light and memorable. At the culminating event on Friday, students enjoyed a Grade 4 dance and jump rope showcase.

“We created Lower School Wellness Week to show our students that building healthy habits can be fun,” says K – 6 Physical Education Department Chair Brad Connors. “Through energizing mornings, interactive health activities, and whole-school celebrations, we want every child to find a way to take care of themselves and others.”

Strong in Body at All Ages

The initiative is paired with a broader focus on wellness at the School. In January, the Middle School will host its annual Jump Into January screen-free week. In the spring, Upper School will experience Healthfest with guest speakers and workshops.

Parents and guardians are invited to various in-person meetings and webinars. The first parent webinar provided an overview of the School’s Student Support Department. Webinars and meetings will continue throughout the year.

These events reflect the school’s year-round approach to reduce technology and social media use. The campus is entirely cell phone free during the school day. Additionally, student social media accounts operate under strict oversight.

‘Wellness’ a Matter of National Concern

The focus on wellness aligns with the growing concerns raised by the CDC’s national Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance Survey. Conducted every two years for the past 35 years, the report shows 10-year decline in healthy diet, physical activity, and sleep behaviors in U.S. high school students.

By beginning young and maintaining the prioritization of health and wellness throughout their educational journey, St. Anne’s-Belfield hopes to seed important habits during these critical early years.