"Healthy You" - Weight Management Program

Helpful Information

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For Physicians

Do you have a patient that you would like to refer to our program? View our referral information and forms.

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Children who weigh more than they should risk serious health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol. Self-esteem and body image can also suffer. If your child struggles to maintain a healthy weight, Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters weight management program can help.

General Program Information

The Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters Weight Management Program was developed in 2001 in response to the growing concern over childhood obesity.

With a physician's referral, your child can participate in our ten-week "Healthy You" lifestyle series. These classes offer:

  • Group setting in which the child and parent learn how to make healthy lifestyle choices.
  • Age-appropriate groupings of children to maximize learning, interaction and group dynamics.
  • Interactive learning experiences centered on choosing healthy foods and snacks and portion control.
  • Exercise demonstrations illustrating easy ways to incorporate physical activity into daily routines.
  • Discussions on self-esteem and body image.
  • The opportunity to be with peers struggling with similar weight management concerns.
  • Nutritionist guided supermarket tour to facilitate healthier food selection and preparation techniques.
  • Support, enthusiasm and hope from experts in the field and peer participants.

The program also features a half-day clinic setting consisting of:

  • One-on-one consultations with a nutritionist, exercise consultant, social workers and a registered nurse.
  • Individualized weight management goals and plans.

The class is available to children ages 8-11 and teens. Parents are required to attend all classes with their child.

For children requiring more intensive group therapy, a CHKD licensed clinical social worker offers psychotherapy group sessions. These provide a safe place for children to discuss their feelings and emotions regarding their weight and related issues. Family and/or individual therapy sessions are also available upon request.

Our Partners

Scholarship and support funding is generously provided by YMCA of Hampton Roads, Williamsburg Community Health Foundation, State Farm, Cypress Point King's Daughters Circle, Golden State Foods, Food Lion and Junior League of Norfolk-Virginia Beach.

Additional Information

The following Way to Grow! "Healthy You" fact sheets are available as additional information.

For additional information regarding CHKD Weight Management Program, support groups, psychotherapy groups or individual and/or family therapy, contact program manager, Babs Benson, RN, at (757) 668-7035 or by email.