Healthy living is child’s play
MEND - the free health course for kids - is launching in the Lancaster and Morecambe area this October.
MEND, which stands for Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do it, is a national programme offering parents who may be worried about their child’s health or weight the opportunity to help their offspring become fitter, healthier and happier.
It combines all of the elements known to be vital in treating and preventing obesity with interactive discussions on nutrition, effective tips on improving child behaviour and self confidence, practical demonstrations, physical activity games, games on label reading and portion sizes along with a fun supermarket tour.
Lancaster City Council is working in partnership with Fylde Coast YMCA with funding from North Lancashire PCT to bring this scheme to the district.
The course is available for 7 – 13 year olds and there are 12 places on a 10 week programme, completely free of charge on a first come first served basis.
The MEND programme has proven results. Youngsters who take part change body shape, reduce their waistlines and achieve a healthier weight for their age and height, which results not only in them being healthier and fitter but also gaining in self esteem and confidence.
Councillor June Ashworth, Cabinet member for children and young people, said: "Lancaster City Council is proud to be working in partnership with Fylde and Wyre YMCA to educate children on healthy living. The MEND project is a great opportunity for local children and their families to look at new ways of eating and how they can lead more active lifestyles."
Jane Colebourne, MEND Programme Manager at Fylde Coast YMCA, says: “The MEND Programme can really change families’ lives. We offer a friendly relaxed atmosphere to encourage children to give new things a go and show parents how they can be supportive and involve the whole family in making healthier choices and following an active lifestyle. Children get healthier and fitter and their self esteem and confidence really get a boost. We very much hope families will take up the chance to improve their health with this fantastic free course.”
The MEND team are now signing up new recruits for the Lancaster and Morecambe courses which start in October. Places are given away on a first come first served basis. Contact the team now to book your child’s free place worth £400 on 01253 882105 or visit www.mendcentral.org and click on ‘join a MEND programme’. Please note a parent or carer must accompany each child to every session.
Date Updated: 13/08/10