When WJCC schools developed a virtual learning plan for the 2020-21 academic year, health and wellness was a key component to ensuring success. Using a whole-child approach, a 30-minute Wellness Block was built into the elementary school daily schedule. The WJCC School Health Initiative Program (SHIP) developed resources for students and teachers to encourage physical activity, healthy eating, stress reduction, mindfulness, and safety. These innovative resources were tailored to the needs of students learning in the virtual environment. Easy to follow and fun videos and at home activities addressed stress reduction, taught mindfulness and encouraged movement breaks and physical activity. Weekly “cooking at home” videos were created with healthy, child-friendly recipes that were safe for students to do on their own or with a parent. The Wellness Block encouraged independence and increased self-efficacy, teaching students to embrace healthy lifestyle habits and increasing their readiness to learn and their academic success.

<strong>Contact: </strong>

Amy Lazev, Supervisor - WJCC School Health Initiative Program

<a href="mailto:amy.lazev@wjccschools.org">amy.lazev@wjccschools.org</a>

757-603-6421