SHARJAH INDIAN SCHOOL

GHUBAIBA
Tel: 06 5670560 / 5671866
Fax: 06 5672914
P.O. Box – 2324, Sharjah
E-mail: mail@[Link] Website: [Link]

OUR VISION
Educate Enlighten Empower

HPS PROGRAMME; A GUIDE TO PARENTS

Introduction: Understanding Health Promoting Schools (HPS)

The Health Promoting School (HPS) programme is a global initiative that aims to improve the
overall health and well-being of students by fostering a holistic environment that integrates
health into all aspects of school life. In the UAE, the programme is designed to empower
schools, students, and communities to create an environment where healthy habits are promoted
and reinforced both inside and outside the classroom.

This guide is created to help parents understand the Health Promoting School Programme, how it
benefits children, and the essential role that parents play in this initiative.

What is the Health Promoting School Programme?

A Health Promoting School is one that not only focuses on academic achievement but also
promotes the physical, mental, and social well-being of students. Schools that adopt this
programme strive to create a learning environment where health is integrated into the curriculum,
policies, and the school culture.

The UAE has embraced the Health Promoting Schools initiative to ensure that students grow into
healthy, well-rounded individuals. The key idea is that education should not only be about
imparting knowledge but also about developing healthy habits that last a lifetime.

Objectives of the Health Promoting School Programme

The Health Promoting School Programme in the UAE has several key objectives aimed at
creating a healthier and happier environment for students:

1. Promote Healthy Lifestyles: Encourage students to adopt healthy eating, physical activity, and
mental health practices.
2. Support Academic Achievement: Recognize the direct connection between physical and
mental health and academic performance.
3. Create a Safe and Inclusive Environment: Ensure that every student feels safe, supported, and
included in the school community.
4. Empower Parents: Provide parents with the resources and knowledge they need to support their
child’s health and well-being at home.

Key Components of the Health Promoting School Programme

The Health Promoting School Programme focuses on the following areas to ensure the well-
being of students:

1. Healthy Eating and Nutrition

A balanced diet is essential for a child’s growth and development. The programme emphasizes
the importance of proper nutrition both at school and at home.

 At School: Schools encourage nutritious meals, offer balanced snacks, and provide nutrition
education to students. Cafeterias are encouraged to offer healthy food options, and nutrition is
integrated into the curriculum.
 At Home: Parents are encouraged to create a healthy eating environment by providing balanced
meals, avoiding sugary snacks, and involving children in meal preparation. Parents can also
educate their children about the importance of nutrition and model healthy eating behaviors.

2. Physical Activity and Fitness

Physical activity is vital for the physical, mental, and emotional health of students. The UAE
Health Promoting School Programme ensures that physical activity is an integral part of the
school day.

 At School: Schools offer regular physical education classes, sports programs, and extracurricular
activities. Students are encouraged to participate in team sports, games, and fitness challenges.
 At Home: Parents can support physical activity by encouraging outdoor play, family exercise
sessions, and setting time limits on sedentary activities like screen time. Parents should ensure
that their children are physically active for at least an hour a day, as recommended by health
experts.

3. Mental Health and Emotional Well-being

Mental health is just as important as physical health. The programme works to reduce stress,
increase resilience, and help students manage their emotions in healthy ways.

 At School: Schools provide resources such as counseling services, mental health education, and
workshops on stress management, emotional regulation, and mindfulness. Students are taught
how to cope with challenges and seek help when needed.
 At Home: Parents can create a supportive home environment by encouraging open conversations
about emotions, fostering resilience, and teaching relaxation techniques like deep breathing or
 meditation. Supporting children through difficult times and recognizing signs of stress can help
maintain emotional balance.

4. Creating a Safe and Supportive School EnvironmentA safe and supportive environment is
essential for fostering student well-being. Schools that adopt the HPS programme aim to create a
nurturing and inclusive atmosphere where all students feel valued and safe.

 At School: Schools focus on creating an environment free from bullying, discrimination, and
violence. They establish clear anti-bullying policies, promote inclusivity, and encourage positive
behavior.
 At Home: Parents can support a safe school environment by reinforcing anti-bullying practices,
fostering kindness, and promoting good relationships between their children and others. They
can also collaborate with the school to ensure their child feels secure and supported.

The Role of Parents in the Health Promoting School Programme

Parents play a critical role in the success of the Health Promoting School Programme. Here are
ways parents can support their child’s health journey:

1. Being Actively Involved in School Health Initiatives

Parents should actively participate in school programs related to health and well-being. This
includes attending workshops, health fairs, and parent-teacher meetings where health topics are
discussed.

 How to Get Involved: Parents can volunteer in school events, contribute to health committees,
and advocate for school policies that promote health.

2. Supporting Healthy Habits at Home

Healthy habits begin at home. Parents are the first role models for their children, and their daily
choices influence their children’s behavior.

 Healthy Eating: Ensure meals are balanced and nutritious. Involve children in meal planning
and preparation, which can help them develop a better understanding of healthy food choices.
 Physical Activity: Encourage outdoor play and physical exercise. Try to limit screen time and
replace it with activities like walking, cycling, or family sports.
 Mental Health: Be proactive in recognizing signs of stress or anxiety in your child. Create a
calming home environment and encourage relaxation practices.

3. Creating Open Communication with the School

Good communication between parents and school staff is essential for monitoring the health and
well-being of students.
 How to Communicate: Keep in regular contact with teachers, school counselors, and
administrators. Share any health concerns or challenges your child may be facing, and work
together to find solutions.

Benefits of the Health Promoting School Programme for Families

Healthier Children: Students who participate in the programme are more likely to develop life-
long healthy habits, leading to improved physical and mental health.

 Stronger Family Bonds: Parents who actively participate in their child’s health journey
strengthen their relationship and create a more supportive family environment.
 Community Engagement: The programme fosters stronger connections between schools,
families, and communities, creating a shared responsibility for the health of students.

How Parents Can Get More Involved

Parents can take the following steps to be more involved in the Health Promoting School
Programme:

 Join Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs): These organizations often play a key role in
implementing health initiatives.
 Participate in Health Education Workshops: Schools may offer workshops for parents on
topics like nutrition, mental health, or fitness.
 Advocate for Health Policies: Parents can work with the school to advocate for policies that
prioritize health and well-being.

Conclusion: A Call to Action for Parents

The success of the Health Promoting School Programme depends on collaboration between
schools, parents, and the community. By being actively involved and supporting your child's
health both at home and at school, you can help create a positive and lasting impact on their
well-being.

We encourage you to stay engaged, communicate regularly with the school, and implement
healthy practices at home to support your child’s growth into a happy, healthy, and successful
individual.

Additional Resources
 UAE Ministry of Education Website: [Link to health resources]
 National Health Initiatives: [Contact information and relevant links]
 Parent Support Groups: [Contact details and community resources]