How do I get started in the HFSY program?

Registration Form

Name:

Address:

Phone:

Place this form in the school office. Someone will contact you about participating in this program. If you are interested in learning more about the HFSY program, contact the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan at 800-482-1455.

Here is your chance to:

• Receive coaching on your personal health

• Learn more about nutrition and exercise and their roles in health

• Learn about preparing healthy meals and cooking techniques

It’s fun. It’s free. It’s easy. It’s Lifesaving.

The National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM) is deeply committed to reducing the incidence and prevalence of overweight and obesity in children and their families in an effort to prevent diabetes, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease. Since children spend one third of their time in a classroom, schools are in a powerful position to influence the health habits of children and their families. For these reasons, the NKFM has developed the Healthy Families Start with You (HFSY) program to educate parents about the importance of adopting healthy behaviors.

Chronic Disease Prevention Program

Learn how to protect your family from diabetes, high blood pressure and chronic kidney disease risks.

Healthy Families Start with YOU

You and your family could be at risk for

• Diabetes• High blood pressure• Chronic Kidney Disease

What is the HFSY program?

HFSY stands for Healthy Families Start with you. It is a FREE health education and health behavior change program that is offered to parents of preschool children. The goal of the HFSY program is to help families make healthier nutrition and physical activity choices to help lower the risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, and chronic kidney disease.

Why is the HFSY program so important?

Unfortunately, overweight and obesity have reached epidemic proportions, affecting more than 60% of adults and 15% of children nationally. This is of concern because the health consequences of overweight and obesity include increased risk of premature death and development of serious chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease, social stigmatization, and increased health care costs.

Fortunately, while chronic diseases are among the most common and costly health problems, they are also among the most preventable. Adopting healthy behaviors such as eating nutritious foods, being physically active, and avoiding tobacco use can prevent or control the devastating effects of these diseases.

How does the HFSY program work?

1. Staff at your child’s preschool will have a one-on-one conversation with you about your health habits.

2. Staff will distribute educational materials and tools (measuring cups, pedometers, etc.) to aid you in your attempts to adopt healthier behaviors.

3. You will have access to additional, on-site, weekly exercise and nutrition classes.

What are the benefits of the HFSY program?

• Convenient: We come to your preschool for free to speak to you about healthy lifestyle habits.

• Fun: You learn in a way that is fun and that keeps you interested from health educators

• Practical: You get information that helps you and your family build knowledge and skills in nutrition and physical activity.

• Educational: You learn who it is important to know your family history of chronic diseases, to get exercise most days, to eat fruits and vegetables, to limit fat, salt and fast food, to stop smoking, and to see your doctor.