Shrek as Exercise Role Model?

by Joy Keller

Can a fat, green ogre send millions of children the message that movement
is healthy? Yes, and he has a full cast
of characters to help him. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Ad Council joined with DreamWorks Animation SKG in February to launch a new series of public service advertisements (PSAs) designed to address childhood obesity. Featuring characters from the movie Shrek, the PSAs are an extension of HHS’s ongoing “Small Step” childhood obesity prevention campaign, which encourages
children and families to lead healthy lifestyles.

The new PSAs, using the slogan “Be a Player: Get up and play, an hour a day,” urge all children to have fun and exercise. Shrek, Princess Fiona, Donkey and several other favorites from the movie urge kids to stop watching television and playing video games and go outside and play.

For more information about the childhood obesity prevention campaign, visit www.HealthierUS.gov.