Smart states are those that pay attention to effective policies and programs that would get communities in good shape. Experts agree that being healthy and fit in adulthood is largely determined by the communities that we live in and habits that we develop as children. When schools serve nutritious foods and invest time in physical education, they become learning environments that shape strong minds and bodies. When parents don't have access to healthy food because they live in a neighborhood where access to fresh produce and other healthy foods is limited, this makes it almost impossible to offer healthy diets at home. Initiatives such as community gardens can help make healthy food available to everyone. neighborhood amenities such as parks, recreation center, sidewalks and libraries make it safer for children to engage in physical activity and serve as a vehicle for socializing, increased time outdoors and enhanced quality of life.

Smart states are those that pay attention to effective policies and programs that would get communities in good shape. Experts agree that being healthy and fit in adulthood is largely determined by the communities that we live in and habits that we develop as children. When schools serve nutritious foods and invest time in physical education, they become learning environments that shape strong minds and bodies. When parents don't have access to healthy food because they live in a neighborhood where access to fresh produce and other healthy foods is limited, this makes it almost impossible to offer healthy diets at home. Initiatives such as community gardens can help make healthy food available to everyone. neighborhood amenities such as parks, recreation center, sidewalks and libraries make it safer for children to engage in physical activity and serve as a vehicle for socializing, increased time outdoors and enhanced quality of life.