Times have changed. It’s a different world for kids today. Going outside to play is rivaled by video games and television. Working families are busier than ever, making healthy eating a challenge.
The result? Obesity rates have more than tripled for children aged 6 to 11. And many obese kids will carry those extra pounds into adulthood, increasing the incidence of heart disease, diabetes, stroke and cancer.
You can be part of the solution. Active Generations pairs teams of adults age 50+ with kids in grades 3 to 5. Classes meet once a week for 8 weeks. Active Generations uses CATCH: Coordinated Approach to Child Health, a proven, kid-tested program to increase healthy behaviors in children. Activities include fun games and exercises, preparing healthy snacks and learning about food choices.
And, there are other benefits. Ms. Sharon was the organizer of one of the Active Generations programs in Escondido, always a cheerleader and motivator. During the 8 weeks her fellow volunteers noticed she’d lost a few pounds. “Well,” she said, “I can’t tell the children to do something I’m not doing; I need to be a good example!”