Program Information
Youth Program Information
Treating obesity in children and adolescents differs from treatment in adults. Involving the family in a child’s weight management program is a key element to treatment. Treatment of pediatric obesity is not accomplished by just dieting. You need to address multiple aspects of the child and the family’s lifestyle, nutrition and physical activity patterns. Prior to discussing any treatment plans, you first must determine the desired goals. If your child is overweight, or at risk for becoming overweight, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to develop an individualized plan of care that includes realistic goals and action steps.
At St. John Providence Weight Loss, we offer a youth program to help children named I’M STRONG at our Shelby and St. John Hospital locations. Children 12-17 years of age or 7th-12th grade are eligible to join. The program incorporates exercise with personal training, balanced nutrition, and lifestyle/behavioral education. The weight management team consists of registered dietitians, exercise specialists, psychologists, and counselors.
The focus is on helping children develop their own best bodies by addressing self-esteem, physical activity, and education. Educational topics taught include society and its influence on weight and diet. Skills such as food label reading, portion sizes, eating out and healthy snacking.
After enrollment, a family meeting led by a registered dietitian, will help your child and family establish goals, meal plans, and activities. Then, each week your child will come in to experience 45 minutes of exercise training with our trainer, followed by 45 minutes of an educational group--either nutrition- or behavioral/lifestyle-focused.
For more information, call St. John Providence Weight Loss at 866-996-3066 and ask about the “I’m Strong” youth program.
Three Steps to Begin the I’M STRONG Program:
Enroll
- Attend a Family Meeting
- Begin Weekly Classes