ISU's "Fit Kids" is new health, activity program

AMES, Iowa -- Is your child physically active for at least one hour every day? Is a healthful breakfast always the start to your child's day? Does your child eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily?

Those and other health and activity related questions will be explored by a new physical and nutrition education program created by Iowa State University's department of health and human performance.

"Fit Kids" offers sessions that begin Saturday, Sept. 24, for children 5 to 17 years old and their parents. Cost is $48; scholarships are available.

The program meets for 12 weeks. "Fit Kids" is based on a similar program at Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, called "Trim Kid." Both programs target young people who are overweight or at risk for becoming overweight.

On Saturdays, parents attend class with their children for one hour. For the second hour, children participate in either gym or pool activities while parents develop strategies to help their children make healthier choices.

On Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, students will attend after-school events.

For more information or to register, call Susan Coates, "Fit Kids" coordinator, at (515) 294-2953.