If you’re looking for a fun and impactful program for primary schools, look no further than Jump Rope for Heart! This fantastic initiative, running for almost half a century, is a proud undertaking of the Heart Foundation. Monique, the chief skipper, leads the way in promoting a healthy and active lifestyle among children.
The most exciting part of Monique’s job is being out with the kids and witnessing their progress and growth. From not knowing how to skip at all… to learning new tricks, she says how amazing it is to see the children’s development throughout the program.
Good News Lutheran in Brisbane is a shining example, as they have participated in Jump Rope for Heart for over 20 years without skipping a beat! In that time, they’ve raised over $112,000 for those living with heart disease… the program truly turns kids into heart heroes.
But it goes beyond just skipping—it’s about getting kids excited about exercise and eating well. These Banana Trail Mix bars make for a perfect afternoon tea, combining healthiness and taste!
Ingredients
- 3 cups wholegrain oats
- 1 cup mashed ripe banana
- 1 cup (170g) diced dried apricots
- 1 cup (160g) fruit, nut and seed trail mix (we subtracted the nuts for this school-safe version)
- ¼ cup honey
Method
- Grease an 18cm x 28cm rectangular slice pan. Line base and sides with baking paper.
- Place all ingredients in a large bowl. Stir until well combined. Press mixture firmly into prepared pan.
- Bake in 160C oven (fan-forced) for 30-35 minutes until light golden. Cool in pan. Cover and refrigerate in pan until cold.
- Lift from pan using lining paper. Cut into 15 bars. Store in a container in a cool place, or in the fridge (see Tip).
Tips
- Bars will keep for 1 week in container in a cool place, or up to 4 weeks in the fridge.
- Use ripe bananas to maximise natural sweetness.
So, why not join the Jump Rope for Heart movement, promote a healthy lifestyle, and make a positive impact on the lives of children and those affected by heart disease? Together, we can jump towards a healthier future!
If you’re interested in getting your school involved in these activities, be sure to check out Jump Rope for Heart website. You can also support the students and Australians living with heart disease by making an online donation.
