February is for Hearts and Healthy Living
February is all about hearts! Aside from candy hearts and Valentine’s Day, it’s also American Heart Month! Hearts are like superheroes, working nonstop to keep you moving, thinking, and growing. Every second of every day, your heart pumps blood, oxygen, and energy into every part of your body. Heart disease is still the leading cause of death for adults, but the good news is that many heart problems can be prevented by healthy habits started early.
That’s why 4-H’s Healthy Living project encourages kids and families to show their hearts some love through everyday choices. The American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8™ gives us a simple roadmap to build strong hearts and brains now and in the future.
Life’s Essential 8 is split into two easy to understand parts: healthy behaviors and healthy factors. To learn more about each essential and for heart health tips, check out Life’s Essential 8™ for Kids | American Heart Association. The essentials are:
- Super Fuel – Eat colorful, healthy foods to help your body grow strong.
- In Motion – Move, play, and exercise every day to keep your heart happy.
- Clear the Air – Stay away from smoking and vaping so your lungs stay clean.
- Sleep Tight – Get plenty of sleep so your body and brain can rest and grow.
- Balanced Bodies – Take care of your body as it grows and changes.
- Building Blocks – Keep your blood flowing smoothly by eating healthy foods.
- Sweet Talk – Eat balanced meals to keep your energy steady all day.
- Don’t Be Pressured – Help your heart pump easily by staying healthy and active.
Through fun 4-H activities, kids learn that heart health doesn’t have to be boring! You can cook together, play outside, dance, and even see how sleep helps your brain grow stronger while showing your heart some love.
Heart health starts at home and works best as a team effort. When families move more, eat better, talk about health, and make decisions together, youth are set up for success and reduce risk of serious health issues later in life. This February, celebrate your heart with 4-H and Life’s Essential 8!
by Cyla Gardner, 4-H Youth Development Agent, February 2026