Let’s Go
“Let’s Go! uses evidence-based strategies to promote policies and environmental changes that make it easier for people to live healthy, active lives. We track strategy implementation through annual surveys with our participating sites and monitor obesity rates and behavior data through the Maine Integrated Youth Health Survey (MIYHS), a state survey given to school children every other year. In addition, we monitor the awareness and knowledge of the program through an annual family member survey.
The Let’s Go! multi-setting model engages schools, out-of-school programs, early care, and education programs, and health care practices to reach families where they live, learn, work, and play to reinforce the importance of healthy living. The program is based on the premise that if children and families are exposed to the same health message in multiple places across their community, and if those places have policies and environments that support healthy choices, children and families will be more likely to adopt or maintain the behaviors in their daily lives.”
Impact of the program:
- In 2019, the programs reached nearly 240,00 children and youth and over 17,000 adults
- 2019 annual survey showed that 770 schools, early care, and education programs, and out-of-school programs limited sugary drinks and 783 provided opportunities for physical activity daily; 690 sites limited unhealthy choices for snacks and celebrations; 680 limited recreational screen time; and 690 prohibited using food as a reward.