Study – Summer Makes Kids Dumber and Heavier [AUDIO]

A new study published in Bloomberg News on-line states 'After spending the summer away from the classroom, children return to school one month or more, on average, behind where they were when the previous year ended. Kids also tend to put on weight in the summer two to three times faster than they do during the school year.'

Child obesity specialist with the Missoula City-County Health Department Mary McCourt says unfortunately, these statements can be true, however, Missoula families can also reverse the trend with a little effort and imagination. McCourt says kids spend way too much time in front of screens, from TV to Facebook, and too little time outside at play. With a little over a month of summer left, McCourt says its time to start strengthening muscles and sharpening minds for the beginning of a new school year. Check the Missoula County website for ideas on how to get started, and get some tips from the interview posted here.

City County Health Department Child Obesity Specialist Mary McCourt