Local MP Caroline Dinenage has today welcomed the launch of a free healthy lifestyle programme aimed at young children in Gosport.The scheme is being run by the charity MEND and will target children aged between five and seven. It is designed to promote healthy behaviour by encouraging active play and teaching children to read food labels. The programme will also advise parents about how to take early action to avoid future problems with their child's weight.
Caroline, a keen advocate of healthy lifestyles, said:
"With nearly 20% of Gosport's Year 6 children classified as obese, estimated obesity levels in our area are much higher than those for the rest of the UK. It is therefore vital that we tackle the early signs of obesity as soon as they arise and I am therefore delighted that this scheme is being rolled out in Gosport.
As a mother of two young children myself, I understand the difficulties faced by parents trying to get their children enthusiastic about healthy behaviour. This scheme provides a great opportunity to instil a healthy attitude towards food and physical activity in children in a friendly and interactive environment. I hope as many parents as possible sign up to take part in this excellent programme."
The scheme will begin on Wednesday 16th October at Bridgemary School and will run for ten sessions. For more information, please click here.