Go4Fun is evidence-based healthy lifestyle program for overweight children aged seven-to-13 and their parents, which aims to help people understand and change unhealthy attitudes towards food and physical activity.

Delivered by specially-trained health and fitness professionals, the course gives families the skills and information to make healthier food choices, and children join in fun activities designed to improve their self-confidence, self-esteem and physical fitness.

Families who have attended last year’s course at Cessnock achieved fantastic results. The group took part in a range of activities such as games, quizzes and a supermarket tour, and learnt practical skills such as how to interpret food labels.

Cessnock mum Jane, whose 10-year-old son Rory completed Go4Fun in 2017, said it was a positive experience for the whole family.

“I was looking for a solution for my youngest son as he was eating too many unhealthy foods,” she said.

“The Go4Fun program empowered us to gain confidence and control in our food choices and exercise.”

Hunter New England Health’s Go4Fun program manager Cathy Stubbs encourages Cessnock-area families to take up the opportunity to apply for a place in this year’s program.

“Many children who take part change body shape, reduce their waistlines and achieve a healthier weight for their age and height, which results not only in them being healthier and fitter but also gaining in self-esteem and confidence,” she said.

“Go4Fun is also a great way to make lasting friendships.

“We hope that many more families will take up this opportunity to turn their lives around.”

Go4 Fun works in partnership with Hunter New England Health to run the course, and thanks to funding from NSW Health, the program is offered free of charge.

The 10-week program will be held at Cessnock Basketball Stadium at 4pm to 6pm Thursdays from July 26.

A parent or carer must accompany each child to every session. Call 1800 780 900 or visit www.go4fun.com.au to register.