Eat Well Play Hard (EWPH) is a childhood obesity prevention initiative of the New York State Department of Health.

Childhood obesity is a major public health problem in New York State (NYS). According to the NYS Strategic Plan for Overweight and Obesity Prevention, recent data indicate that the prevalence of obesity among children and teenagers in the U.S. has tripled in the past 20 to 30 years. Nearly one-third of preschool-age children in New York State, aged 2 up to 5 years, are considered obese or overweight.  These prevalence rates greatly exceed the prevalence reported for the U.S. (15.8%).

Eat Well Play Hard was developed to help prevent childhood obesity and reduce long-term risks for chronic disease through the promotion of targeted dietary practices and increased physical activity. Poor nutrition and inadequate physical activity combined are the second most preventable actual cause of death in the USA. Being active builds healthy muscles, strengthens bones and helps maintain a healthy weight. It also reduces the risk of diabetes, heart attack and high blood pressure.

Eat Well Play Hard Core Strategies

  1. Increase developmentally appropriate physical activity.
  2. Increase consumption of vegetables and fruits.
  3. Increase consumption of low-fat or fat-free milk, for children over age 2.

In St. Lawrence County, the St. Lawrence Health Initiative administers the Eat Well Play Hard program. We are partnering with many different agencies, organizations and schools throughout St. Lawrence County, including:

For more information about the Eat Well Play Hard program please contact Karen at  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 261-4760, ext. 16