Starting Healthy Habits Early

Pupils at Invercargill’s New River Primary School learned about the digestive system, bowel health and the importance of healthy eating habits last month, in partnership with the Southern DHB’s National Bowel Screening Programme.
 
The pilot programme shared the benefits of adopting healthy habits early. The Programme team guided children through classroom discussions about the body and nutrition, followed by a trip through a giant inflatable bowel where the pupils engaged with interactive panels inside.
They also learned a little about the National Bowel Screening Programme, with information tailored to suit each age level.
 
“The children were encouraged to share their learning with their families and loved ones,” says Emma Bell, Programme Manager. “Each child was able to take home a postcard promoting the National Bowel Screening Programme to share with someone important to them. The postcards feature images of our bowel screening champions, who represent a range of ethnicities and backgrounds.”
New River Primary School Assistant Principal, Gina Larson-White, says the school was delighted to host the education sessions.

"We are always keen to raise awareness among our community members about health issues that may affect them and their whānau"

It’s hoped this programme will be offered to other Southern schools in future.