Program helps children ages 5–13 build lifelong healthy habits through fun, interactive lessons

EVANSTON, Ill. – Endeavor Health is making its Healthy Endeavors for Kids curriculum available to community organizations, schools and youth programs, expanding access to trusted, age-appropriate health education that helps children build the skills and confidence they need to thrive.

Designed for children ages 5 to 13, Healthy Endeavors for Kids brings health and wellness education to life through engaging, hands-on lessons that can be easily implemented in a variety of settings – including schools, park districts, after-school programs, camps and youth organizations. The flexible curriculum, available in English and Spanish, requires no clinical background to deliver, making it accessible for teachers, youth leaders and community staff.

“Endeavor Health is committed to improving the health of the communities we serve. We know that healthy habits formed early in life can shape lifelong physical and emotional wellbeing,” said Kristen Murtos, Chief Innovation & Transformation Officer at Endeavor Health. “Through Healthy Endeavors for Kids, we’re partnering with community organizations to expand access to engaging health education that builds confidence, sparks curiosity and empowers children to make healthy choices for life.”

The curriculum focuses on whole-child wellness, helping young people explore what it means to be healthy physically, mentally and emotionally. Through guided discussions, creative activities and real-world skill building, participants learn about eight areas of wellness: mental and emotional wellness, physical wellness, personal care, social skills, wellbeing practices, healthy eating, digital awareness and emergency care.

The free, ready-to-use Healthy Endeavors for Kids curriculum includes:

  • 24 structured, 30-minute lesson plans covering key health and wellness topics
  • Age-tailored activities for children ages 5–13
  • Printable lesson materials, knowledge checks and parent resources
  • Facilitator guides with setup instructions and supply lists
  • Take-home resources for families to reinforce learning beyond the program setting

Endeavor Health piloted the program during summer camps in 2025 at several community locations, including the C.W. Avery Family YMCA in Plainfield, Tri-Town YMCA in Villa Park, Outreach programs in Lombard and Villa Park, and the Endeavor Health Fitness & Wellness Center in Woodridge. Feedback from staff and families highlighted the program’s engaging format, practical lessons and accessibility for a wide range of learners.

"Healthy Endeavors for Kids made it so easy for my team to plan life skills for our elementary summer camp,” said Sarah Kling, Elementary Summer Program Coordinator, Outreach York. “We were able to choose a lesson from each of the categories, use supplies that we already had and implement the lessons with ease. Our students loved the lessons and engaged in the hands-on activities. We are excited to continue using Healthy Endeavors for Kids this summer and can't wait to see the improvements that have been made to the already amazing curriculum."

Camp staff noted that the 30-minute lessons were easy to implement, while activities such as drawing, role-playing and movement helped campers stay engaged. Families also responded positively to the program’s take-home resources, which help reinforce healthy habits at home.

Healthy Endeavors for Kids was created to increase access to trusted health education, support whole-child wellness, teach essential life skills without stigma, strengthen family engagement and promote long-term community health.

To learn more about the program and access lesson materials, visit 
www.endeavorhealth.org/healthy-endeavors-for-kids