I am delighted that we are going to be working with students from the College of West Anglia again. In previous years we have worked with people from slightly younger age groups, going into schools and visiting Brownie packs.
Why do I think this work is important?
Firstly because we know that it is vital to develop strong bones in childhood. What happens up to the age of about 20 lays the foundation for bone health in later life. Poor diet, as well as eating disorders, can have disastrous consequences later on. Children absorb messages, and many are keen to learn and understand more about their own bodies. If we can encourage young people into a healthier lifestyle and get them to think about their bones we may help at least some of them avoid problems in later life.
Secondly, young people are imaginative and creative. You will have seen the fine art work and promotional material that students from Churchill Park School and from the college have produced. Some years ago, pupils from Terrington created a great Powerpoint presentation. As well as getting the pupils who worked on the projects to think about their own health, these materials have been shown to others and have helped to get our message across.
Thirdly, we all know how persuasive a young child with new information can be. If just one or two of the pupils we have worked with go back home and tell (nag?) their families about the importance of diet and exercise, I, for one, will be very happy.
So, for these reasons, I shall continue to push for work on bone health to be done in schools and colleges.
If you know of anyone who would like us to provide materials, to do a presentation, or to set up a project with a group of young people, please let me know.