Helping Students Build Strong Bones
The Best Bones Forever! Campaign
Boys and girls ages 9-18 are in their critical bone-building years. By the time they reach age 18, they have developed almost all of their bone mass. Unfortunately, not enough children (girls in particular) get the calcium, vitamin D, and physical activity they need to build strong bones. Less than one in 10 girls gets the 1,300 milligrams of calcium they need every day. In addition, girls’ physical activity levels drop dramatically as they get older.
The goal of Best Bones Forever! is to increase calcium and vitamin D consumption and physical activity—habits that are important for a child’s overall health. The campaign focuses on fun and friendship and encourages girls to get active and choose bone-healthy foods. While Best Bones Forever! targets girls, the lesson plans, activities, and ideas on this page are designed for both girls and boys.
Strong Bones RN, RU?
Best Bones Forever! has partnered with the National Association of School Nurses and the National Osteoporosis Foundation to create a toolkit for school nurses. This comprehensive toolkit includes monthly activities, handouts for students and parents, and contests and events throughout the year.
Content last updated August 2010
