"Makes a distinct contribution to the field with the timeliness of the subject matter, the severity and demands of the issue addressed, and the need for more resources addressing this subject." —Stephanie Slowik, School Counselor, West Lake Elementary School, Apex, NC "Demonstrates the challenges that principals face today." —James Gostomski, Physical Education Teacher, Verde Elementary School, Boca Raton, FL Create and implement school policies that support wellness and fitness for our children′s health and success! This clear, authoritative overview by an educator and a physician helps principals navigate their way through the many contradictory recommendations confronting them. The authors provide a targeted discussion of the "do′s," "don′ts," and "can′ts" that school leaders need to know when creating and implementing new school policies for wellness, nutrition, fitness, and health. Student surveys and annotated guides to the best research accompany core chapters on: Dealing with childhood obesity in schools and society Facilitating the principal′s role as an agent of change Understanding the barriers that interfere with change Developing school action plans for wellness, fitness, and stress reduction Principals will find Overcoming Obesity in Childhood and Adolescence a timely resource for understanding and evaluating the challenges inherent in dealing with this growing health issue in schools and society.