exercise

Perhaps play is not the opposite of work, but synonymous with it. This theory is emerging from a growing body of scientific evidence, reviewed here by the University of Georgia, showing education is not the same as disinterested drudgery: For children and adults, "play is an important mediator for learning and socialization throughout life."

On Oct. 24, physical education teacher Kathy Hibbard held a kickoff meeting at Shaker Lane School (Littleton, Mass.) to introduce students and staff to the "Fuel Up to Play 60" program. Sponsored by the NFL and the National Dairy Council and inspired by a number of recent studies connecting good nutrition and exercise with improved academic performance, the program encourages children to make healthy eating choices and to get at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day.

Child obesity rates have more than tripled over the past 30 years, putting kids at risk of developing conditions that typically only affect adults – such as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease.

Former U.S. military leaders have identified a latent threat to the potential for a leaner, more agile fighting force: the school vending machine.

The Obama administration and some members of Congress have found a new battleground: school lunchrooms.