POWER programs run for 8 weeks, with classes meeting twice a week after school. A typical class begins with a healthy snack, followed by an education segment about good nutrition, followed with about an hour of physical activity.

Nutrition education emphasizes the food pyramid and the importance of eating healthy fresh foods, with five fruits and vegetables per day. The exercise program varies greatly from one location to the next, since it must utilize facilities available at the school. One advantage is that children learn and participate in games that they can continue to play in their own school yard. One of the innovative aspects of the exercise segment, is that the staff incorporate the nutritional theme of the day into the exercise agenda. A relay may involve pictures of the vegetable of the moment, or a basketball game might require players to name a fruit before they take their next shot.

The reinforcement seems to work.  Staff report that parents have said, “My son doesn’t want to go to McDonald’s anymore,” or “They asked for vegetables with dinner.”

A dental hygienist and behavioral health counselor also visit the program at least once, to discuss good dental hygiene and self-esteem.

Participants have their Body Mass Index (BMI) measured and take a nutrition test and survey at the beginning and end of the program. Typically, all children who began the program with high BMIs reduce them by the end of the eigth week.

For information contact Wellness Center staff at 405-605-8203.

• Back to Behavioral Health Programs
  
• Across the Mountains
  
• Turtle Camp
• Youth Fitness Program