ABOUT HEALTHY WEIGHT AND YOUR CHILDEmpowering Families to Live Healthier
Made up of groups of 15 families (child and adult), Healthy Weight and Your Child program creates a safe, fun and active environment for children and families to explore and adopt proven methods to living a healthier lifestyle. Studies have shown that the program is cost-efficient and effective in reducing a child’s body mass index and waist circumference, reducing sedentary behaviors, increasing physical activity and improving self-esteem.
HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS
Healthy Weight and Your Child empowers children ages 7-13 years old, with the support of their families, to reach a healthy weight and live a healthier lifestyle. Through the leadership of Y staff, the yearlong, evidence-based program engages a child and adult as a pair, so together they can understand how the home environment and other factors influence the choices that lead to a healthy weight. The program emphasizes behavior changes to support healthy eating and physical activity.Families will work with trained leaders and learn about topics, including: Healthy eating Physical activity Portion control Internal and external triggers Food label reading Goal setting and rewards
DOES YOUR CHILD QUALIFY? In order to qualify for participation in the Healthy Weight and Your Child Program, your child must:be 7-13 years old carry excess weight, with a body mass index (BMI) of the 95th percentile or higherreceive clearance from a healthcare provider or school nurse to participate in physical activity
WHY THE WHOLE FAMILY? Evidence shows that child weight-management programs are more effective when the whole family is involved and committed to adopting healthier habits. For this reason, the program is designed so that parent/caregiver attendance is required at all sessions.
AVAILABLE CENTERS OFFERING HEALTHY WEIGHT AND YOUR CHILD PROGRAM: Houston Texans YMCA (English and Spanish) Thelma Ley Anderson Family YMCA West Orem Family YMCA (English and Spanish) Baytown Family YMCA Vic Coppinger Family YMCA School Locations – (call or email for more information)
For more details, see here https://www.ymcahouston.org/programs/kids-health
