Free program for overweight children

Children living on the Peninsula will have the opportunity to join a free program at the Peninsula Leisure Centre which can transform their health with the support of their families.

The 10-week Go4Fun Program is for seven to 13-year-old children who are above their healthy weight.

The Go4Fun Program runs at the Peninsula Leisure Centre two afternoons a week from 4pm to 6pm.

Program manager Ms Louise Parfitt said: "The Go4Fun Program is a really positive experience for the whole family."

She said the program was based on the MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition...Do it!) program which was an evidence-based healthy lifestyle program for children who were above their healthy weight.

Held in twice-weekly sessions and delivered by specifically-trained health and fitness professionals, the course was unique and aimed to help children become fitter, healthier and happier and delivers long-term results, she said.

It gave families the skills and information to make healthier food choices and children the opportunity to join in fun activities designed to improve their self-confidence and self-esteem as well as their physical fitness.

"I have seen many of the children who take part change their eating and exercise habits, which results not only in them being healthier and fitter but also gaining in self-esteem and confidence.

"Go4Fun is also a great way to make lasting friendships.

"We hope that many more families will take up this opportunity to turn their lives around and apply for a place on the program."

The course is run by Central Coast Local Health District in partnership with NSW Health and MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition...Do it!) and starts in the first week of Term 3.

Families interested in participating in Go4Fun should contact Louise on 0427 471 119 or 1800 780 900.

Email, 8 May 2012

Terry Hayes, Northern Sydney Central Coast Area Health Service