Abstract

This article reviews school- and community-based mental health and health promotion programs for children. Positive social and emotional health and physical health are key components of wellness or a state of well-being. Children who participate in programs to promote social and emotional development and obesity prevention programs, to maximize healthy eating and physical activity, may have better long-term health and well-being. These programs are ideal additions to school-based programming and may encourage achievement in school as well. Moreover, establishing healthy lifestyle behaviors may exert a long-term effect on health into the adult years and set a foundation for healthy families for years to come. Researchers, educators, policy-makers, and health professionals may make a key contribution to child health and wellness by sharing evidence-based programs and ensuring their implementation in school and community settings.