by Maureen Bailey, MSc, MA

In every classroom, behind every desk, sits a child with boundless potential. But for that potential to flourish, children need more than textbooks and tests—they need environments that nurture their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. At Action for Healthy Kids, we believe that healthy children create a better world, and that belief drives our mission to foster learning environments that support optimal child health and well-being.

The connection between health and learning is undeniable.1,2,3 Children who are well-nourished, physically active, and emotionally supported are more likely to attend school regularly, concentrate better, and perform academically.1 Yet, too many children face barriers to health—limited access to nutritious food, inadequate physical activity, and rising mental health challenges.

Creating healthier schools isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a necessity. It starts with simple, impactful changes: offering nutritious meals, integrating movement into the school day, and prioritizing mental health through supportive relationships and resources. These changes don’t just benefit individual students—they uplift entire communities.

But we can’t do it alone. Parents, educators, policymakers, and community leaders all have a role to play. Whether it’s advocating for healthier school lunches, volunteering for a school garden, or supporting mental health initiatives, every action counts.

When we invest in the health of our children, we invest in the future of our society. We empower the next generation to grow into resilient, compassionate, and capable leaders. Let’s work together to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive—not just in school, but in life.

Because when kids are healthy, they’re ready to learn. And when they’re ready to learn, they’re ready to change the world.

Maureen Bailey, MSc, MA Associate Director of Research and Evaluation at Action for Healthy Kids. Maureen Bailey has approximately 15 years of experience in school health and wellness, with a strong focus on data driven decision-making, strategic planning, and program and project evaluation. Her work has been featured at national conferences including, but not limited to, the American School Health Association, SHAPE America, Rural Summit: From Cradle to Career, SNA ANC, and the International Studies Association.

1. Basch CE. Healthier Students Are Better Learners: A Missing Link in School Reforms to Close the Achievement Gap. New York: Columbia University, 2010.
2. Case A, et al. The lasting impact of childhood health and circumstance. J Health Econ2005;24:365-89.
3. Suhrcke M, de Paz Nieves C. The impact of health and health behaviours on educational outcomes in high-income countries: a review of the evidence. Copenhagen, WHO Regional Office for Europe, 2011.