Dr. Zan Gao, assistant professor in the School of Kinesiology and director of the Physical Activity Epidemiology Lab (PAEL), gave a research talk titled, “Promoting Physical Activity and Academic Achievement Through School-based Exergaming Interventions,” at Minnesota Communities Caring For Children 7th Annual Healing Vessels Forum on March 14.

There were over 100 community leaders, supporters, parents, early-childhood, and school-age care providers in attendance. The forum was designed to challenge communities to speak out on child maltreatment and the achievement gap in Minnesota. The forum also provides professional development for practitioners in the early childhood field on evidence-based research.