A study of patterns of health behavior among rural and small-town children surveyed 1,950 K-6 students from seven southern Illinois elementary schools. Findings indicate that less than half of the students ate the recommended amounts of fruits, vegetables, and grain each day. Males and females smoked at about the same rates, but sixth-grade boys drank significantly more than sixth-grade girls. Boys fought and shot guns without adult supervision significantly more than girls, but there was no gender difference in bringing weapons to school. Twenty percent of students knew someone who had brought a weapon to school. About 50 percent of students rode a bike each day or played on a sports team, and 8 percent walked to school. Seatbelt use decreased from 94 percent in kindergarten to 77 percent in the sixth grade, with no significant difference between boys and girls. Fifty six percent of second graders wore a helmet when riding their bike, compared to 19 percent of sixth graders. Tooth brushing and hand washing did not vary by grade level, with 88 percent reporting daily tooth brushing and 93 percent reporting washing their hands after going to the bathroom. In general, older children were less likely to engage in positive health behaviors. The most consistent gender difference was in regard to fighting and weapons, with boys reporting much higher rates. School-based programs implemented in partnership with community health programs and focused mass-media activities are recommended to help children develop healthy habits. (Contains 19 references.) (TD)