US Surgeon General rewards GoKids Boston’s
US Surgeon General rewards GoKids Boston’s
The US Surgeon General has presented an award to GoKids Boston for its work in helping to prevent childhood obesity. Acting U.S. Surgeon General Rear Admiral Steven K. Galson toured the research, educational training and community outreach center for youth fitness at the University of Massachuetts, as part of a national “Healthy Youth for a Healthy Future” initiative to recognise and showcase communities and innovative programs that address childhood obesity issues. The Surgeon General recognised the centre, which focuses on physical fitness, healthy eating and self-esteem, as a pioneering youth fitness research and training facility. GoKids Boston is partnered with the US company Sportwall International, which researches, develops and manufactures the interactive equipment exclusively distributed by ZigZag in the UK. The relationship has helped GoKids develop an approach that combines exciting interactive gaming with nutrition lessons, educational tutoring and leadership skill building.
GoKids Director Dr. Kyle McInnis said: “The centre combines evidenced-based behaviour strategies with ‘Xergames’, fun interactive games such as lighted Sportwalls and computerised dance mats to help get kids engaged and moving.”
More than 17 percent of children in the United States are overweight, twice as many as in the previous 15-year period. Those 12.5 million children are at greater risk of serious health problems such as type 2 diabetes and commonly develop psychosocial issues including depression and low self esteem. A growing body of research shows obesity and low levels of physical activity are also associated with poor academic achievement. “We cannot wait any longer,” says McInnis. “We need to act collectively to make real changes or we stand to put a whole generation of kids at further risk”. GoKids Bostons partners with public schools, community centres, YMCA’s, Boys and Girls Clubs, hospitals, and other groups where rates of obesity and low physical activity are disproportionately common.
