Regular physical activity has been shown to improve strength and endurance, help control weight, and prevent chronic disease. It has also been shown to improve academic achievement, including grades and standardized test scores. Research also shows positive effects on the brain, including improved attention, processing, memory, and coping. Promoting Increased Physical Activity in Schools provides an overview of current practices and policies regarding physical activity in Rhode Island schools (including recess and physical education), and includes recommendations for promoting increased physical activity in schools. 

For more, please see the media release, event presentation, and event pictures.

Families in need of insurance have until January 31 to apply for commercial coverage through HealthSource RI for 2016. Those who already had commercial insurance through HealthSource RI last year should review their 2016 assigned plan carefully and decide whether they want to stay in this plan or choose a different plan. 

For more information on how to apply, please check out the Rhode Island Health Coverage Project's bilingual 'Get Covered Stay Covered' flyer. Please forward and share this resource widely! 

Note re: RIte Care/Medicaid: If you are eligible for Medicaid, you can enroll at any time. Renewal is on a rolling basis (not just during this Open Enrollment period). Please watch your mail for renewal information, which will be sent 2 months before your renewal date.

The Rhode Island Health Coverage Project recently hosted a webinar for community helpers: "Taxes and the Affordable Care Act." Information about health insurance tax forms, penalties and exemptions, the tax filing process, and help for consumers was provided. To view the webinar, presentation, and for additional resources, please click here.

The TeethFirst! initiative promotes the importance of early dental visits. Please see and share the following bilingual Tooth Talk Blog postings:

• HealthSource RI Open Enrollment: Get Covered and Stay Covered!
• Inscripción abierta en HealthSource RI: ¡Obtenga la cobertura y mantenga la cobertura!

In addition, free educational resources for parents & families, health care providers, dental providers, and community organizations are available. To see all free campaign materials - and to order! - please click here.

Throughout the legislative session, Rhode Island KIDS COUNT tracks the budget and other bills being considered by the Rhode Island General Assembly and presents policy information and data-based testimony to General Assembly committees. Visit our website to see which bills we are tracking and to read our testimony.

The 2016 Rhode Island KIDS COUNT Factbook will be released on Monday, April 11, 2016 from 8:00 am - 10:00 am.

An invitation with registration details is coming soon!

Are you interested in specific areas of child well-being? Rhode Island KIDS COUNT publishes E-Newsletters on specific areas related to child well-being: 

• Children's Health and Health Insurance 
• Child Welfare/Juvenile Justice 
• Early Childhood/Early Learning 
• Rhode Island KIDS COUNT also publishes a general interest E-Newsletter. 

Please click here to start receiving these updates today!