[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 117, 108th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

Proclamation 7716 of October 6, 2003
 
Child Health Day, 2003

By the President of the United States of America


Parents, teachers, and mentors play a critical role in helping children
learn to make healthy choices in life. On Child Health Day, we emphasize
our commitment to teaching our children the benefits of good health.
The safety and well-being of our children is a priority shared by all
Americans. As children grow and develop, they face many risks and
dangers. Through the HealthierUS Initiative and the President's
Challenge, my Administration is working to help children learn the
benefits of a healthy body and mind.
Across our country, parents and caregivers can play a vital part in
creating a more healthy America by teaching children good nutrition and
important safety procedures. We can all help young Americans improve
their health by encouraging them to eat healthy foods and to get regular
exercise. Good nutrition can improve students' ability to concentrate
and help them succeed in the classroom. Families must encourage our
young people to avoid harmful activities. Families can also protect
their children by ensuring that they are immunized against preventable
diseases and making sure that homes, day care centers, and schools have
been checked for potential hazards. Parents can help prevent accidents
and injuries by securing infants, toddlers, and small children in child
safety seats and booster seats, checking consumer safety warnings, and
making sure young people wear protective gear during recreational
activities.
By teaching our children to make safe, healthy decisions, families and
all Americans can help our young people reach their full potential, be

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come responsible leaders in their communities, and make our Nation
better.
The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 18, 1928, as amended
(36 U.S.C. 105), has called for the designation of the first Monday in
October as ``Child Health Day'' and has requested the President to issue
a proclamation in observance of this day.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim Monday, October 6, 2003, as Child Health
Day. I call upon families, schools, child health professionals,
communities, and governments to help all our children discover the
rewards of good health and wellness.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixth day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
eighth.
GEORGE W. BUSH