August 25, 2017

With Rising Childhood Obesity Rates, Do You Know 5-2-1-0?

Contact:
Jennifer S. Sexton
Jennifer.Sexton@flhealth.gov
941-624-7200 extension 7279

Port Charlotte, Fla. – By now most children will be back in the routine of school.  They know where their classroom is.  They know what time lunch starts.  They know which kid owns the coolest fidget spinner.  But do they know 5-2-1-0?

In support of National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, the Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County wants to help families understand the risks of childhood obesity and how to incorporate regular physical activity and healthy eating into their lives. 

“Small behavior changes can make a big impact on the health of a child,” said Abbey Ellner, Health Promotions Program Manager for the Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County.  “By incorporating the 5-2-1-0 Let’s Go! program into public school’s Physical Education classes, we are encouraging Charlotte County’s youth to begin making those small changes.”

5-2-1-0 Let’s Go! is a nationally recognized childhood obesity prevention program that reaches children and families where they live, learn, work and play. 

The 5-2-1-0 Let’s Go! daily message is:

 5 or more fruits or vegetables

• 2 hours or less recreational screen time
• 1 hour or more of physical activity
• 0 sugary drinks, more water, and low-fat milk

Charlotte County embraced the message in 2014.  Department of Health staff taught the program to second grade students at East Elementary School that year.  The program has since expanded to include all area public schools.

“Parents can help reinforce and influence positive changes at home and in the school setting, as well as serve as healthy role models for kids,” said Ellner.  “When parents know 5-2-1-0, they can help cultivate a healthier lifestyle for their children.”

When you pick your child up from school today, instead of asking, “How was school?”, ask, “Do you know 5-2-1-0?”

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

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