Weight Management

The program provides weight management for overweight youth and their families in Los Angeles. Services include nutrition education, wellness programs and weight management programs for youth who meet the medical guidelines defining obesity. The program for youth ages 9 to 12, that provides a multidisciplinary clinical approach that includes education, physical activity, and nutrition planning. The program requires that the child present medical clearance to participate. The programs are research studies assessing whether a family centered nutrition and exercise program helps overweight children improve their health.

Kids N Fitness is geared toward youth who have had a Body Mass Index reading of 85% or more. In addition, the child should have at least a third grade reading level. The program is a 6 week lifestyle intervention that teachs the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. Youth learn healthy lifestyle through games, dance, strength training and activities including field trips; families learn about making healthy snacks, how to read nutrition labels and how to order healthy foods at restaurants. Parents attend parent education classes while youth are in their exercise session. The parent component focuses on nutrition and how to support their child in a healthy lifestyle.