A family supported weight management program A family supported weight management program Credits: YUSA
Edison, NJ – The YMCA of Metuchen, Edison, Woodbridge & South Amboy recently announced the launch of “Healthy Weight & Your Child”, an evidence-based program for children carrying excess weight.
The program, which received a grant from Y-USA, is being offered at no charge said the YMCA. The program is slated to begin in mid-October and will consist of two hour-and-a-half sessions per week. The sessions will include 45 minutes of workshops, nutritional education and/or guest speakers, followed by 45 minutes of physical activity.
The program, 25 sessions delivered over four months, empowers 7-13 year olds, with the support of their families, to reach a healthy weight and live a healthier lifestyle according to the organization. A parent/caregiver must attend all sessions. One adult YMCA membership is also included with the program. Other qualifications to participate in the program include receiving clearance from a healthcare provider or school nurse to participate in physical activity.
The program creates a safe, fun and active environment for children and their families to explore and adopt proven methods to living a healthier lifestyle. Healthy Weight & Your Child engages the entire family so together they can understand how the home environment and other factors influence the choices that lead to a healthy weight. Developed by leading child health and weight management specialists using the best available evidence and clinical and government guidelines, the Healthy Weight & Your Child program engages families in education, healthy eating and physical activity to help families achieve a healthy weight and lifestyle together.