With one in three children in Leicester above a healthy weight, the MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition...Do it!) programme aims to help local families become fitter, healthier and happier.
The 10-week after-school programme, which is funded by NHS Leicester City, runs twice a week every Monday and Wednesday at Welford Road starting the 1st of October 2012. Families with children aged seven to 13 will learn about nutrition and how to maintain a balanced diet, while children will take part in fun games and activities.
The free course, developed in partnership with child health experts at Great Ormond Street Hospital, includes a supermarket visit to learn how to read food labels.
Christine Bailey, Tigers MEND programme manager, said: “We all lead such hectic lives that eating healthily can sometimes drop off the priority list. At MEND, families learn how they can make small changes to get back on a healthier track.
“Kids love the fun activities and games, while the parents tell us that they enjoy learning about healthy eating and swapping tips with other parents. As well as losing weight, kids leave the programme with more energy and a boost in self-esteem”.
Lorraine, a local parent who attended the MEND programme with her daughter Bella says: “Bella gained confidence after meeting new children on MEND and it encouraged her to be more adventurous with food.
“Before MEND she would rarely eat fruit and vegetables but after trying different types on the programme and finding she liked them she is now eating a much healthier and balanced diet. It was a real eye opener to learn about the fat and sugar that goes into the food and drink on the programme as it was things we used to buy at the supermarket.
“We also make time during the week to be active together as a family, whether that's taking the dog for a walk or going on a bike ride."
Independent research conducted by the University College London’s Institute of Child Health found that children who attended the MEND programme experienced long-term health benefits, including long-term weight loss and improvements in fitness and self-esteem.
Places are limited. For more information contact Christine Bailey on 0116 217 1221, email [email protected] or visit www.mendcentral.org
