Holistic health program tackling obesity in young Toowoomba people
A program targeted at stemming childhood obesity in Toowoomba offers a more holistic approach to improving the health and wellbeing of Toowoomba children. Here’s how it works.
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Initially designed to help Darling Downs children who are overweight or obese, a new program has inlcuded in its focus a more holistic approach to health and wellbeing targeting children as young as two years old.
The Healthy Kids Program, which kicked off in 2021 and is operated by Darling Downs Health, encompasses elements of mental health as well as physical wellbeing.
In November 2020, the chief health officer reported in their biannual report, The Health of Queenslanders, that childhood obesity in four different health regions including the Darling Downs had higher prevalences than Queensland overall.
The program not only aims to stem those startling statistics, but also educates children on their emotional and psychological wellbeing.
“We have a team of dietitians, exercise physiologists, psychologists and child health nurses who run the program and help our participants get as much out of it as they can,” Toowoomba Hospital dietitian Roisin Rafferty said.
The five-month program aims to teach young people aged between two and 17 years the importance of physical activity and its benefits on mental health.
It also teaches children about mindfulness, healthy sleep habits, and strategies for success.
Ms Rafferty said the second round of the program was due to begin in July, and applications are now open.
“Our next program starts on 1 July so for parents or care givers who think it could be of benefit for their child, it’s a great time to look at getting involved,” she said.
“To apply to join the program all you need is a referral from a GP or any other health professional.
“They can submit that referral via Queensland Health’s Smart referrals web page, or letters or referral forms can be sent to Nutrition and Dietetics at Toowoomba Hospital.”
Sessions will be held after school at our Child and Family Health Community Centre at 298 Ruthven Street, with one group session and one individual session with a dietitian per month.
Group sessions will be held in the first week of July, August, September, October and November, with groups made up of participants of similar ages.
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