Washington, DC –President Bush declared today National Child Health Day 2005 by calling on all parents to teach their children about the harmful effects of bullying.  
 
National Child Health Day, was originally proclaimed by Calvin Coolidge in 1928, and provides an opportunity for the President to focus the nation’s attention on serious public health issues that impact our youngest citizens.  Previous years’ topics include prenatal care and adolescent health.  This year's theme focuses on the need for parents to be more vigilant about their children’s health and safety. 
 
According to the U.S. Department of Education, one in four children who bully will have a criminal record by the age of 30. The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) reports that young people who bully often behave badly in school, and are more likely to smoke, drink alcohol and get bad grades. JAMA also reports that nearly 30 percent of all youth aged 11 to 15 have been a victim or perpetrator of bullying behavior.
 
To combat this growing problem, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, launched the “Take a Stand. Lend a Hand. Stop Bullying Now!” campaign in 2004.  The campaign features resources for young people, parents, educators, and other adults interested in bullying prevention.  Materials include a web-based animated series, television and radio public service announcements, and an extensive Resource Kit with tips for adults on how to recognize and stop bullying – all available at the website, www.stopbullyingnow.hrsa.gov .
 
“To prevent bullying over the long term, we need to change the culture that allows it to continue, particularly in school settings,” said Dr. Elizabeth M. Duke, HRSA Administrator. “This campaign offers a set of tools that have been proven effective for parents, teachers and children.”
 
To order campaign materials, including the SBN Resource Kit, call 1-888-ASK-HRSA.