WIREDGOV

A free healthy lifestyle course for Welsh youngsters will open its doors shortly across the country.

With one in three children in Wales above a healthy weight, the MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition...Do it!) Programme aims to help local children become fitter, healthier and happier whilst having fun.

At the 10-week after school programme, children aged between seven and 13 and their parents will learn about healthy eating and how to enjoy physical activity.  The free course, which was devised by child health experts at Great Ormond Street Hospital and is funded by the Welsh Assembly Government also includes a visit to the local supermarket where the children and their parents will learn how to read food labels.

The MEND Programme consists of two hourly sessions twice a week over a 10 week period.  Each session includes a one hour interactive workshop for children and parents, and a one hour fun physical activity session for the children whilst the parents have an adult discussion.

Helen Matthews, MEND Programme Manager for Swansea, said: 

“The MEND Programme is a fun way for children to get fit and healthy and improve their self-esteem.  We offer a safe and non-judgemental environment for families to learn how to make healthy choices and become more active.”

Chief Medical Officer for Wales Dr Tony Jewell said:

“It can be really tough for children who are overweight, both physically and emotionally and it is important that we tackle this issue in Wales.

“Over the last year MEND has had some great successes, but there is still a lot to do. We need to develop healthy behaviours and habits in children from an early age but at the same time also support children who are already above a healthy weight through schemes like this.”

An independent study published in Obesity Journal found that children who attended the MEND Programme experienced long-term health benefits, including sustained weight loss and improvements in cardiovascular fitness and self-esteem.

To find out more about the programme in your area and to join, call freephone 0800 230 0263, e-mail info@mendcentral.org or visit  www.mendcentral.org

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