October is Children’s Health Month. Throughout October, the Task Force will be working to raise awareness of the unique health risks faced by children from environmental factors. Federal agencies are emphasizing the importance of protecting children now so that they can grow up healthy and happy. Persons can find more information online, along with a Children’s Health Outreach Toolkit that can be used and modified by organizations to implement their own awareness activities or amplify those of the federal agencies.
The theme for Children’s Health Month is Growing Healthy, Growing Happy. Each week in October is focused on different sub-theme:
October 1-5 – Strong Bodies and Minds
- Children's growing bodies are more vulnerable than adults to environmental health threats. Protecting their health now is key to strong futures.
October 6-12 – Healthy Spaces
- Ensure homes, schools, childcare facilities, playgrounds and other spaces where children spend most of their time are built and improved with their health in mind.
October 13-19 – Empowered Communities
- Equip communities with the knowledge and resources necessary to guarantee every child, regardless of income, race, or origin is protected from health risks.
October 20-26 – Bright Futures Begin Lead Free
- National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week – Get the facts. Get your child tested. Get your home tested.
October 27-31 – Planning Ahead
- Keep children healthy in the face of a changing climates, natural disasters, and other emergency situations by preparing now for future challenges.
Sign up for the President’s Task Force email list to get access to more children’s environmental health and children’s safety information and resources.