Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Plains is gearing up to host its popular Go Girls! Healthy Bodies Healthy Minds! program this August, offering girls aged 12 to 14 a chance to develop healthy habits and life skills in a fun, supportive setting.
The four-day program runs from August 5 to 8 at the BBBS office in Portage la Prairie, with sessions from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and flexible options for early drop-off and late pick-up.
Encouraging active living and balanced eating
Executive Director Dawn Froese says the program is designed to be engaging and interactive.
“We’re basically going to be talking about active living and doing a bunch of games. Everything’s really interactive. We’re going to talk about balanced eating as well as life skills such as problem solving, body image and everything is interactive. Lots of discussion, lots of fun,” she notes.
Froese adds the program is free to participants thanks to a sponsor, although girls are asked to bring their own lunch for most days.
Meeting a real community need
The executive director highlights the importance of supporting girls during this pivotal age.
“We know that as young girls develop into teenagers in that 12 to 14 year old bracket. They either embrace sports or they don’t, so we want to actually encourage kids who don’t embrace sports. What are other ways that you can keep active so you can keep healthy throughout your lifetime?” she continues.
Froese adds the balanced eating component promotes moderation and positive habits rather than dieting.
“Everything is OK in moderation. We’re not going to be talking about dieting except for you probably don’t need to diet. You just need to stay active and you need to eat balanced meals.”
Life skills for growing independence
The program also focuses on preparing girls for the challenges of adolescence.
Froese mentions, “The life skills are going to give them those skills that they will need as they complete junior high and as they go into high school. So those relationship skills."
Positive feedback from participants
Froese remarks many girls start the program unsure about what to expect but finish eager for more.
“Often when girls start the program, they’re going what am I doing here and what is this about? They’re unsure on that first day and on the last day, probably without exception, they’re going, ‘Can we do this more? It really is a positive thing for young girls.”
Families interested in registering or learning more can contact Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Plains at 204-857-4397 or email bbbscentralplains@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca.
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