Activity encouraged for kids

MATTAWA - There is a definite change in tempo when September arrives. Family routines now revolve around school and sports activities.

Children are playing outside on the school grounds at recess. Cross country kids are running on sidewalks and streets after school. There's also football, soccer and volleyball.

"All these activities are great," said Columbia Basin Health Association dietitian Cynthia Rosenow, who is certified in child weight loss management.

"When I go in for a medical checkup, the first thing I'm asked to do is step on the scales," Rosenow added. "There's good reason for that since our weight is extremely important to our overall good health."

Statistics show that children and teenagers who are obese are likely to become obese adults. Overweight and obese youths are at greater risk for many immediate and long-term health problems - including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

Rosenow and her colleague, dietitian Karlee Kerr, work closely with CBHA medical providers to help patients manage their weight.

"We teach them the importance of eating healthy foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fat-free dairy products and seafood."

Schools are doing their part by serving healthier foods and increasing times for physical activities. The Othello Healthy Community Coalition is sponsoring a "Walk to School" event on Wednesday, Oct 8. The schools will distribute information to students via their PE teachers.

"We encourage students to participate in this fun event and get a little exercise in the process," Rosenow said.