Kidshape is a family-based weight management program for youth, 6 – 14 years of age, who are overweight. It is an innovative and highly effective program to deal with a growing and particularly difficult problem, namely the prevention and/or reversal of childhood obesity.

The risks of obesity have become public health concerns. Since 1980, the prevalence of obesity has doubled for children and tripled for adolescents. Fortunately, this national issue is beginning to receive the attention it deserves, and we are confronting the truth – that our expanding waistlines are creating a health crisis that threatens to decrease life expectancy and health-related quality of life.

Health professionals now have a growing capacity to describe the obesity problem. Far more difficult is identifying effective approaches to stem this health challenge. Children struggling to deal with weight issues now have help through a nationally recognized family-based weight management program. With the cooperation of Steps to a HealthierPA-Fayette County, the Kidshape Program is now being offered in the Uniontown area for the first time. Developed in California in 1987 by a pediatric endocrinologist, Kidshape has shown effectiveness in helping families improve their eating and exercise habits.

Children are referred into the program – based on weight criteria – by a physician, school nurse or other health care provider. Participants do not need to have Highmark insurance, or any insurance, to participate. The goal of the Kidshape program is to promote healthy lifestyles and does not focus on weight directly; however, the children do lose weight. The curriculum, intended to help families adopt better nutrition habits and engage in more frequent physical activity includes nutrition education, physical activity, parent involvement, and group and peer support. A registered dietician, mental health professional, physical activity specialist, and coordinator work as a team to conduct the sessions held once a week for nine weeks. A parent must attend sessions with the child, and together they enjoy hands-on activities that are educational but fun.

The success of Kidshape rests in its community focus, and Highmark has sought locations familiar and comfortable for families. Classes for registered participants will be held at the Trinity United Presbyterian Church in Uniontown. Anyone interested in learning more about Steps’ Kidshape program is encouraged to call (724) 439-1484.

Kidshape^® is a registered program of the Kidshape Foundation sponsored in Pennsylvania by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield.

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