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Exercising healthier options

Emma ClaytonMelville Gazette

The Better Health Program is a free healthy lifestyle course for overweight children aged seven to 13 and their families.

Families joining the program at Willagee Community Centre will take part in two-hour sessions, twice a week for 10 weeks.

Better Health project manager Hayley Robertson said the program aimed to support families to improve their eating and exercise habits, thereby improving children's fitness, physical activity levels, nutrition and self-esteem.

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Places are being offered to families free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis.

Rather than focusing on weight loss, the program uses a practical, interactive learning approach to teach children and parents weight management skills.

This includes supporting families to adopt healthier lifestyles, preparing and eating healthy foods, reading food packaging labels, and healthy shopping on a budget.

There are also simple sessions that focus on making exercise fun again, especially for children who dislike traditional school sports.

"We have seen the positive effects of the program being delivered in other areas and we know that this program really can change families" lives," Ms Robertson said.

"(It) is a fun, friendly and family-focused program that encourages them to give new things a go and show parents how they can be supportive and involve the whole family in making healthier choices. Children can become healthier and fitter, while their self-esteem and confidence increase greatly."

Families interested in participating should call 1300 822 953 or visit www.betterhealthprogram.org to register. A parent or carer must accompany each child to every session.

The Better Health Program is a component of the WA Healthy Children Program, which is jointly funded by the State and Federal governments.