CATCH for Schools

K-8 CATCH

The CATCH Program (Coordinated Approach To Child Health) brings schools, families, and communities together to teach children how to be healthy for a lifetime. CATCH is effective because healthy behaviors are reinforced through a coordinated approach-in the Classroom, in the Cafeteria, in Physical Education, at Home, and After School. CATCH is research-based and proven to work. And, most importantly, CATCH makes nutrition learning and physical activity FUN!

The CATCH Go for Health Series is a K-8 classroom health education curriculum that teaches children to identify, practice, and adopt healthy eating and physical activity habits. Hands-on activities encourage changes in behavior that support healthful eating and physical activity patterns-primary risk factors of heart disease, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, and obesity.
CATCH PE combines high energy, non-elimination activities with teaching strategies that keep kids moving and having fun. CATCH PE significantly increases physical activity levels of students during PE class, and provides for a variety of learning experiences for students of all abilities.
The CATCH Program considers school cafeterias an extension of the classroom. Through the Eat Smart component, breakfast and lunch become opportunities for children to learn, practice, and adopt healthy eating habits. School Food Service personnel prepare healthier meals and help coordinate healthy messages with the rest of the school.
The CATCH Family component is designed to get students, parents, and extended family members involved in practicing and adopting healthy eating and physical activity behaviors at home. By doing so, the home environment becomes an extension of the CATCH Program at school.