Healthy Kids, Healthy New York After-School Model Guidelines, Toolkit and Recognition Program

The Healthy Kids, Healthy New York Initiative was launched in July 2007, thanks to a grant from the National Governor’s Association. The goal of the initiative is to fight childhood obesity and create healthy after-school environments.

The program focuses on three areas – nutrition, physical activity and screen time. Model guidelines are provided for each area, which, if followed, will:

• Ensure that children are served only nutritious snacks and beverages at after-school programs;
• Ensure that children engage in an adequate amount of physical activity in after-school programs;
• Reduce television and recreational screen time in after-school programs.

The toolkit, which includes the guidelines, was designed to help after-school providers easily implement the program. It includes:

• A self assessment instrument which will help the provider evaluate their current nutrition, physical activity and screen time environment;
• Implementation resources and strategies;
• Materials to help parents support their after-school program in implementing the guidelines and to develop healthier home environments.

Click here for the Healthy Kids, Healthy New York After-School Initiative Guidelines and Toolkit.

In Spring 2009, licensed New York State after-school providers who have implemented the Healthy Kids, Healthy New York After-School Guidelines can apply to receive formal recognition from the Governor’s Office. Click here for the Healthy Kids, Healthy New York Governor's Recognition Program for Licensed After-School Providers.

Click here for the press release by Governor Paterson and First Lady Michelle Paige Patterson announcing the release of 'Healthy Kids, Healthy New York After-School Initiative'.

The Healthy Kids, Healthy New York After-School Guidelines and Toolkit were developed collaboratively by:

• New York State Governor’s Office
• New York State Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs
• YMCAs of New York State, Inc.
• New York State Healthy Eating and Physical Activity Alliance
• American Cancer Society
• New York State PTA
• New York State School Boards Association
• New York State Office of Children and Family Services
• New York State Department of Health
• New York State Education Department