Actively Changing Together (ACT!)
Improve your health as a family through our ACT! program where families gain skills and a sense of community needed to make small, sustainable changes to support healthier habits.
Learn Healthier Habits for Life
Habits are hard to change. Children who struggle with obesity early in life are more likely to continue to struggle with it into adulthood and are at higher risk for diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Obesity can also affect a child's social and emotional well-being, contribute to poor academic performance, and result in a lower quality of life. Incorporating healthier habits now, along with family members, provides accountability, a shared sense of purpose, and will help set up young people for more success down the road.
The ACT! program helps families actively change together by practicing healthier habits as a team. Developed in partnership with providers and professionals at Seattle Children’s, it includes 12 one-hour sessions where kids ages 8-14 and their parents/guardians participate in fun and engaging physical activities, learn about nutrition through hands-on cooking, and meet with other families in the program.
It's Time to ACT!
There's no time like the present. The ACT! program seeks to help your child to:
Get Moving
An increase in physical activity will aid in weight management, lower blood pressure, and improve heart health. It can also contribute to better quality of sleep and reduced feelings of anxiety and depression.
Eat Better
A balanced diet which includes more fruits and vegetables and less sugary drinks will boost immunity and strengthen muscles and bones. Long term benefits include lower risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Reduce Screen Time
Less time on phones, playing video games, or watching TV means more time for exercise and active play. It is also associated with a higher sense of well-being, better sleep habits, and improved social behavior.
Improve Family Connections
Children who spend more quality time with family tend to do better in school and have less behavioral problems. They have also been shown to have higher self-esteem and be more resilient and adaptable.
"My son Max (10 yrs old) and I can't say enough about ACT! We as a family have seen the benefits of the ACT Program. It has really shaped the way we, as a family approach our health and everyday living. The support and knowledge that the instructors have really make it an enjoyable time for all of us to come together. My husband and I are truly grateful for this program." - The Yin Family
What to Expect from ACT!
For 12 one-hour sessions, specially trained Y staff offer guidance and encouragement for eating well, playing often, and preventing health conditions associated with being overweight.
Fitness Disguised as Fun
Kids are challenged to get moving with fun activities for the whole family. Parents have the opportunity to set a good example by joining in. Be ready with comfy clothing and lots of space!
Cooking with a Side of Nutrition
A variety of nutritional topics are weaved into weekly healthy cooking demonstrations. Recipes are provided in advance so kids can be prepared to cook right alongside our expert chefs.
Community and Coach Support
Kids and families are not alone in their health journey with ACT! Connections to coaches and other families provide a framework of support. Goal setting and idea sharing are encouraged!
Program Details
ACT! is offered in a virtual, online format that we call ACT! at Home and ACT! in person at participating Ys.
Upcoming Classes
- Mondays, 5:30–7:30 pm | January 27 to May 5, 2025 | Kent YMCA | English
- Wednesdays, 5:30–7:30 pm | February 5 to May 14, 2025 | Bellevue YMCA | English
- Thursdays, 5:00–6:30 pm | March 6 to June 5, 2025 | Virtual | English
Fees
ACT! is offered free to the community but is subject to a $50 non-refundable registration fee.
Questions
For any questions, please email us at ChronicDiseasePrevention@seattleymca.org
Referral is Required
The ACT! program requires a referral from a medical provider. We accept referrals from many types of medical providers, including primary care or specialist physicians, nursing staff, registered dietitians, school nurses, and physical therapists. Your medical provider may fax this form to us on our secure line at (844) 836-8957.
Download English Referral Form
Descargar el Formulario de Referencia en Español
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Learn More
To learn more about ACT!, inquire about participating, or ask a question, please schedule a call today or fill out the "Contact us to get started" form below and include your child's full name and date of birth in the message box.