My Overweight Child: Grassroots Program Targets Obesity

Childhood Obesity - Do you have an overweight child? We offer tips to help your child lose weight and get fit!

The My Overweight Child blog will help you keep informed about the latest research, findings, and resources available to parents of overweight or obese kids. There are many knowledgeable people working on the increasingly dire problem of childhood obesity - and we want to give parents a place where they can check in regularly to see the latest studies and tips available to help you help your child lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

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Monday, July 28, 2008

Grassroots Program Targets Obesity

BodyWorks, was launched by the Department of Health and Human Services' Office on Women's Health in 2006. The program trains instructors on health and fitness, with the goal that these instructors will the information back to their communities and start local programs.

"Girls 9 to 13 years old who are overweight or obese are referred to BodyWorks through their pediatrician, or by word of mouth. Parents and caregivers attend 10 weekly 90-minute sessions, and girls are expected to show up for at least three. The goal is to give parents and caregivers 'hands-on tools to make small behavior changes to prevent obesity and help maintain a healthier weight.'"

Though local communities have to pay for trainers and facilities, the training materials are provided free of charge through the DHSS. There are currently 1,700 BodyWorks instructors in 43 states, and about 700 parents and caregivers have also completed the program. Source: Daily Times

Labels: community, fitness, health