Today, about one in three American kids and teens are overweight or obese, nearly triple the rate in 1963. PLAY!, which stands for Positive Lifestyle Actions in Youth, is a program initiated by the medical team at SSM St. Clare Health Center in Fenton, designed to improve the health of youth in the community. This is done by providing education to empower families to take positive actions in their nutrition and physical activity. PLAY! programs for youth are composed of lessons and activities aimed to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, self-efficacy and intentions to make healthy decisions related to nutrition and physical activity. In the program, through fun and educational activities, youth and their parents learn about three important actions to help maintain a healthy lifestyle – improved food choices, increased physical activity and reduced screen time.
The PLAY! program is traditionally offered to local organizations and schools as a week-long program. The children attend a summer camp format with fun activities, exercise and nutrition while parents attend informational sessions throughout the week. Beginning May 31, St. Clare Health Center is expanding the program to offer monthly events for members of the community. The program is open to children in grades 3-8 and their parents and caregivers. Each month, families can join the PLAY! team at SSM St. Clare for a morning full of fun, games and education, designed to help families learn how to live a healthier lifestyle.
E-mail PLAY_Program@ssmhc.com for more information or to sign-up.