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Sparrow Health System - Fitness Initiative Targeting Kids (FITKids)
The FITKids program was developed to reduce the problems and illnesses associated with excess weight by teaching at-risk children and families how to improve nutrition and physical activity by maintaining a healthier lifestyle. FITKids leadership and staff work with middle school teachers to create fun, interactive activities that strive to increase intake of fruits and vegetables; decrease intake of sugar-based drinks; and balance caloric intake with calories expended through physical activity.
What is it?
The FITKids program was developed to reduce the problems and illnesses associated with excess weight by teaching at-risk children and families how to improve nutrition and physical activity by maintaining a healthier lifestyle. FITKids leadership and staff work with middle school teachers to create fun, interactive activities that strive to increase intake of fruits and vegetables; decrease intake of sugar-based drinks; and balance caloric intake with calories expended through physical activity.
Who is it for?
Sixth- and seventh-graders in mid-Michigan middle schools.
Why do they do it?
Michigan ranks eighth in the nation for incidence of obesity at 31.7 percent, with child obesity at 12.4 percent.
Impact
Students report that they are eating and drinking healthier, are getting more physical activity, and are asking their parents to buy healthier foods.
Contact: John Berg
Executive Director, Strategic Market Development
Telephone: 517-364-2509
E-mail: john.berg@sparrow.org
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