KidShape Class to Begin October 2009

New Castle, PA – September 28, 2009 - KidShape is a family based  program that focuses on behavior modification and includes nutrition education, peer discussion, group support, exercise and other fun activities which promote wellness and self-esteem.  The 9-session program is targeted toward children ages 6 – 14 who are overweight or at risk of becoming overweight and whose BMI ’s are in the 85^th or 95^th percentile according to their age and sex.

The goal of the KidShape program is to promote healthy lifestyles and does not focus on weight directly; however the kids do lose weight.  Eighty-seven percent of the students enrolled lose weight within the first nine weeks of the program.  Approximately 80% of the students keep the weight off one to two years after they have completed the program.  Parents/guardians have also reported weight loss and often better control of their own illnesses such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

Charlane Verdi, RN, BSN, director community & staff education said, “Our most recent class graduated 10 students/families with an overall weight loss of 25 lbs and with improvement of BMI in 9 out of 10 students.”

Space is still available for classes beginning this month.  Interested families should contact the Community & Staff Education Department at Jameson Hospital for more information at 724-656-4094 .

At Jameson, classes meet at the Jameson South Conference Center . The next session begins in February and runs for nine sessions.   The cost per child is only $10.00.  One parent or guardian is required to attend with each enrolled child.

This program is co-sponsored by the Jameson Hospital Community and Staff Education and The HighMark Foundation.