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Here's
Why Children Need CHOICES
Health officials around
the world are encouraging more physical activity and better nutrition as
ways to combat childhood obesity. For many years it was perceived that
obesity was simply about overeating. Through research we have learned
that it is really about the changing times of technology, diminished
safe places for children to play, the bombardment of fast food marketing
and the lack of healthy meal choices in schools. If children are to
become healthier, we must all start working as a team.
Our program strategy at
C.H.O.I.C.E.S. is designed to be multifaceted. We
believe that no single strategy in itself will be successful. Through
collaborative partnerships with fitness trainers, physical and
psychological health professionals, motivational speakers and dietitians,
C.H.O.I.C.E.S. is a resource to families with overweight and
obese children. The Center’s aim is to provide a safe, supportive
environment for clinically diagnosed and at risk children of obesity,
with the inclusion of their parents through the following program
components:
PHYSICAL
FITNESS/TRAINING
Designed to increase awareness, inform, educate, and train participants
to make physical activity a normal and necessary part of their daily
activity. The “C.H.O.I.C.E.S. 8-Week Fitness Challenge”
program, consisting of cardio exercise, group exercise and nutrition
planning was designed specifically for children and their families.
DIETARY/NUTRITIONAL
EDUCATION
Designed to establish the link between the consumption of food and its
effect on mind and body. The Center provides weekly learning lessons to
Increase knowledge in the areas of food choices and consumption. As part
of the Choices Support Group, we also discuss better food preparation
and diversity.
PEER
SOCIALIZATION
Inclusion is the key! Participants can enjoy a number of group
activities, social outings and interactive discussions to create a
healthy atmosphere for peers with common challenges and common goals.
INTERACTIVE
WEBSITE
The impact and attraction of technology to the youth culture is
enormous. The Center utilizes this powerful medium to reinforce lessons
learned, provide parental tips and communicate as a team.
COUNSELING/COACHING
Talking helps! Sharing one-on-one
or within a group setting provides a vehicle to discuss challenges,
offer encouragement and share accomplishments. The Choices Support Group
reinforces the simple theme: Together we can make a difference in the
lives of others and ourselves.
COMMUNITY
COLLABORATION
The Center puts forth great
effort to raise awareness within the community about obesity and
healthier living by joining with other organizations. In the near future
we will expand our direction to include making institutional
intervention and policy changes.
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choicesforkids.org
