Play is universal for all ages and research shows that physical activity, in combination with good nutrition, is essential to a healthy lifestyle.
Studies show that active kids do better when it comes to academic performance and concentration in class. However, only one in three kids are active every day, potentially leaving many at a disadvantage inside and outside of the classroom. From students and teachers, to parents and community members, For the Love of Play reminds everyone that they have a role to play in emphasizing the importance of physical activity and good nutrition in order to lead healthier lives.
Helping Inspire Healthy Families with Quaker's Make the Play Contest:
As part of the Quaker Make the Play contest, participating families have the chance to win a grand prize "Day of Play" in their hometown with Indianapolis Colts Quarterback Andrew Luck, plus daily giveaways for a $50 NFLShop.com gift card.
"We are proud to continue our relationship with Fuel Up to Play 60 and the NFL to help families and communities understand the unmatched benefits of physical activity and nourishing foods," said Justin Lambeth, Chief Marketing Officer, Quaker Foods North America. "Quaker has been committed to helping fuel families for more than 135 years, and we are looking forward to seeing the creative ways that families stay active through our 'Make the Play' Contest."
Luck is teaming up with Quaker for the third consecutive year to help inspire families to think about eating right and getting active. Whole grain oats are a great way to provide families with the energy they want for play.
"I'm excited to continue my work with Quaker," said Andrew Luck. "Whether I'm on or off the field, I know the importance of getting enough sleep, and starting the day with a wholesome breakfast like oatmeal made with milk and fruit. While I'm lucky enough to have my day job keep me active, I have some great memories of playing made up backyard games with my siblings. Many of them would have been awesome submissions for the 'Make the Play' contest!"
Getting Active with FUTP60's Love of Play Campaign:
For the Love of Play was created as a reminder for all ages that play is fun and easy! Whether it's flag football with friends, physical education and active brain breaks at school, a game of tag in the backyard or organized sports after school – the ways to play are endless. Kids, parents and teachers can visit FuelUpToPlay60.com to:
- >>Learn more about why physical activity matters
- >>See how kids and NFL stars are getting their 60 minutes of play a day
- >>Get involved with Fuel Up to Play 60 at their school and access resources like physical activity Plays that help integrate activity into the school day as well as resources to advance nutrition and physical activity efforts
"With research showing that increased physical activity, paired with better nutrition, can lead to improved academic achievement, America's dairy farmers who have supported child health and wellness for nearly 100 years, are proud to continue to support a healthier generation with Fuel Up to Play 60," said Jean Ragalie-Carr, RDN, LDN, President of National Dairy Council. "By convening our partners to make it a community effort, we're excited to see For the Love of Play reach kids, teachers, families and community members across the nation to influence positive change."
Created in partnership by the National Football League and National Dairy Council, in collaboration with the US Department of Agriculture, Fuel Up to Play 60 creates real transformational change in more than 73,000 schools nationwide. As a result of the program, last year 14 million students ate better by adding nutritious foods like low-fat and fat-free milk and milk products, fruits, vegetables and whole grains to their meals. Additionally, 14 million are getting more physically active during the school day.
