There’s no doubt that kids love Disney. Whether it’s Disney movies, Disney Channel, Disney XD, Disney Junior, or even Disney video games. So it might come as a bit of a surprise to hear that Disney wants kids to take a break.
It’s no secret that childhood obesity has been on the rise in recent years. Some have even referred to it as an epidemic. Childhood obesity has damaging effects in the long run, too. It can cause diabetes and affect self-esteem. There are a lot of factors that have contributed to the increase. The rise of fast food and an increase in soda consumption is definitely one cause. Perhaps the bigger reason is the most sedentary lifestyle kids lead these days.
Healthy Living by Disney
Recently, Disney launched a new campaign to help kids lead healthier lives. Topics range from making healthier food choices to exercising.
A new series of animated shorts will run in between shows on Disney Channel, Disney Junior, and Disney XD. The videos feature characters from Disney’s most popular shows. That includes The Lion Guard, Miles from Tomorrowland, Gravity Falls, and Star Wars Rebels.
The videos were made in a unique animation style that separates from other Disney content. The animators involved included James Curran (Star Wars Rebels, Gravity Falls) and David Calcano (The Adventures of Papchu and Dr. Kapatoo).
New Videos to Get Kids Involved
Disney Junior has a new video called “Teke Ruka Teleza (Kick, Jump, Slide).” It’s a workout video for kids ages two to seven. Paige Peterson of ABC’s Dancing With the Stars consulted on the video. (ABC is also owned by Disney). “Teke Ruka Teleza (Kick, Jump Slide)” premiered on September 23.
Be Your Best With Miles features characters from the show Miles From Tomorrowland. It teaches kids to sustain their energy throughout the day. They can do that by making smart choices like Miles. It premiered on September 24.
A video series focused on yoga premieres next week. It’s based on Disney Junior’s The Lion Guard. Training With the Guard premieres on October 3.
Disney Channel has their own new video series called The Adventures of Papchu and Dr. Kapatoo. The show focuses on nutrient-rich foods like blueberries, greens, and tomatoes. The emphasis is on how a balanced and nutritious eating plan is important for all-around health.
A Commitment to Healthiness
Gary Marsh, president and chief creative officer of Disney Channels Worldwide, had this to say:
“We have an ongoing dialogue with parents who tell us they appreciate our efforts to model healthy lifestyle choices. One of the ways we do that is by ensuring healthier standards for food products seen within our kids’ television, radio and digital programming and by using our platforms to inspire kids to eat nutritious foods and be active.”
Disney estimates the new videos will reach 500 million households on 116 channels around the world. It’s all part of Disney’s companywide Healthy Living Commitment.
What do you think? Are you glad to see Disney encouraging healthy living for your kids? Why or why not?
