Points out that children are uniquely susceptible to toxic substances. Describes the hazards that asbestos, pesticides, and art materials pose to children. Offers practical advice for dealing with common problems encountered in child care programs. (RJC)

Self-esteem and health locus of control have been postulated as predictors of attitudes and behaviors related to child health. This study measured the relationship among self-esteem, health locus of control, and health attitudes of 291 Native American fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-grade students. Results are discussed. (Author/MT)

Examined perceptions of Montana residents regarding health, health needs, and health care services. Respondents defined health in relation to ability to function and work; pain appeared less important in determining the rural person's notion of health. Self-reliance and self-help were used to cope with illness; family and friends were relied upon…

Describes positive and negative aspects of employment and unemployment in a balance sheet framework. Discusses the value of the balance sheet approach in understanding individual differences in reactions to unemployment. (Author/KS)

The relationships among health status, family and socioeconomic factors, and academic achievement were examined to discover the effect of health status on academic achievement. Health problems were found to be moderately related to academic variables. Results are discussed. (Author/DF)

Maintains that sugar intake should be reduced in young children's diets because of its link to dental cavities, poor nutrition, and obesity. Reducing the focus on sweetness, limiting sugar consumption, and using natural sources of sweetness and other treats are ways to help reduce sugar intake. (BB)

Recent research on fitness levels and physical education are reviewed. Six curriculum models are briefly noted, and a personal fitness model is proposed. The primary objective of the personal fitness model is lifetime fitness. (MT)

Caregivers of family members with dementia of the Alzheimer's type were surveyed for their experiences with early symptoms, obtaining a diagnosis, home care, and institutionalization. At each stage in the process of providing care there are new and different stresses that can be ameliorated by appropriate professional assistance. (Author)

The incidence and continuity of smoking and drinking, precursory social-behavioral characteristics of smokers and drinkers, and life conditions related to smoking and drinking are described. Part of an extensive Finnish longitudinal study of social development, the original sample consisted of eight-year-old subjects. Follow-up studies were made…

A longitudinal study of child behavior and health in a newly urbanized part of Khartoum was carried out in 1979-1980 on 245 children 3 through 15 years of age. Generally, fewer behavioral problems were found in this population than has been reported from other developing and developed countries. (RH)

Leisure activities seem to have a significant impact on physical and psychological health. Research also indicates that intrinsically motivated behaviors positively affect an individual's sense of well-being, ability to cope with stress, and physical health. (DF)

Programs that provide support for the health and well-being of school employees are rare. A health promotion program focusing on self-help is discussed in this article. Methods of program development and implementation are presented. Results indicate that school employees can be trained to facilitate a health promotion program in the school…

The most basic fact about childhood obesity is that a child who consumes more energy in the form of food than s/he uses will gain weight. Medical information about obesity is reviewed, and ways that parents can help overweight children are suggested. (PP)

Public schools have come under enormous pressure in recent years to demonstrate academic gains and to address deeply rooted disparities among students of different races, ethnic groups, and income levels. Clearly, boosting academic achievement should be a top priority. Less evident, however, is the long-term effect of supporting this goal by…

"The Shape We're In" is a national public education initiative that places a media spotlight on physical activity and obesity to promote public awareness and spark dialogue and action across the country. The centerpiece is a five-part newspaper series delivered to newspapers nationwide. This community action guide begins by describing…