Be Cool Under the Sun
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Lesson Plan

For a lot of kids, protecting themselves from the sun is just not on their radar screen. Yet research indicates that one blistering sunburn in childhood doubles the risk of adult skin cancer. This vignette focuses on a child who practices sun-safe habits automatically, so they are a natural part of her daily life. She’ll show how it’s “no big deal” to avoid the sun’s harshest rays.

ABCD Eat Right
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Lesson Plan

A ground-breaking program in San Antonio inner-city schools uses elementary and middle school classrooms to incorporate healthy eating and exercise habits into children’s lives. They engage not only the students, but their families, too, with games, rewards and even special prizes. The program is designed to prevent diabetes, but when the families learn the behaviors, they’re also learning how to prevent cancer.

All in the Family
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Lesson Plan

Sometimes the best way to get Junior moving is to push Dad out the door with him. This piece focuses on families that exercise together. The physical benefits are just the start of the rewards they reap from taking the time to get moving. Not only does everyone get their bodies in better shape, but the family time together helps strengthen bonds. We’ll meet families who have found simple, affordable ways to exercise together.


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Ask a child what they know about cancer, and the answer will most likely be, “Only old people get that!” While it’s true many cancers don’t manifest themselves until later in life, the healthy habits we form in the early years may be the key to staying free of the disease later on.

These six five-minute vignettes are designed to encourage good nutrition, exercise and healthy habits from an early age. Though the ultimate goal is cancer prevention—the message for kids is about taking good care of their bodies—and having fun while they’re at it. Since the concept of “preventing cancer”—or long-term risks in general—is almost never a motivating factor for children, these spots will rarely, if ever, mention cancer. The pieces are designed to encourage and reinforce the actions that will help prevent the disease in a positive, appealing and “kid-friendly” style.

When Children Have Cancer
Visit this on-line resource for families with a child who has cancer, and for those who love and care for that child.