St. Louis Children’s Hospital helps families get healthy
Childhood obesity is an epidemic - nationwide, 19 percent of children ages 6 to 11, and 17 percent of those ages 12 to 19 are overweight, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Obese children are more likely to be obese adults and are at greater risk for diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease.
Although the obesity rate is increasing for all children, African-American children between ages 6 -17 are 1.3 times as likely to be overweight than Non-Hispanic Whites, according to the Office of Minority Health.
Health is a Family Matter
Children look to their parents as role models for a healthy lifestyle, says Tammy Staten, supervisor for St. Louis Children’s Hospital health and wellness fitness programs. “We strive to support parents as the agents of change,” she says.
St. Louis Children’s Hospital offers comprehensive programming to support families with weight management.
FAN Club
FAN Club is for children ages 8-12 years diagnosed as significantly overweight. The 30-week program focuses on changing participants eating behaviors, and helping the family fit exercise into their lives.
Head to Toe
Head to Toe is a 10-week program designed to help moderately overweight children ages 8-17 develop healthier lifestyles through nutrition and exercise. Registration is underway for Fall sessions, which begin Sept. 8.
Fit N Fun
St. Louis Children’s Hospital brings healthy lessons to schools through Fit N Fun. Students learn about good nutrition and exercise, and take home healthy assignments.
These programs are paid for by generous donors to the St. Louis Children’s Hospital Foundation.
For more information about St. Louis Children’s Hospital weight management programs, contact 314.454.KIDS (5437).
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