Local families could soon be learning fun ways to get fit and healthy thanks to a free program starting very soon—raising kids is hard and MEND is here to help.

MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do it!) is a 10-week family based education program designed to help children and their families get fitter, healthier and happier together. The program facilitates safe, effective and long-lasting changes by improving children’s physical activity levels, nutrition and self-esteem. In Cranbrook, MEND is starting on Tuesday, October 6 at Steeples Elementary School (pictured above).

MEND has been running in British Columbia since 2013 in several communities with success, and the results indicate that it is making a difference. Participants of the program have reduced their heart beat by 4.8 beats per minute following the three minute step test, decreased screen time of average 1.2 hours per week, and increased physical activity by 2.2 hours per week. It also has improved their self-esteem and children feel more confident.

Families who attend the MEND program experience many positive benefits. Here are a few:

– Families learn how to make healthier choices and get active together;

– Children become fitter and healthier;

– Children are able to concentrate better at school;

– Children find new friends and parents find a support network to keep them motivated.

During the program families learn all aspects of nutrition including how to make healthier food choices, learn how to read food labels, understand fats and sugars, the difference between unrefined and refined foods and how to prepare a healthy balanced meal.

Above all, the families learn how to have fun together as a family with games that can be played long after the program ends. 
Spots are limited and filling up fast.

To find out if MEND is right for your family call or email Jodine Toorenburgh at 250-489-0270 or [email protected].

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