Healthy weight for children and families

Mum and children on school run
Overweight family at home on sofa, eating fruit snacks and smiling

Children and families weight programme

Our free programme supports families with children aged 2 – 12 years to build long term healthy habits. It is evidence based and proven to help families be healthier, improve emotional wellbeing, and strengthen positive parenting practices through an 8 week virtual one to one course.

The programme consists of eight weekly sessions delivered online (with face to face sessions coming soon in Milton Keynes), offering an interactive and supportive environment. Families receive a healthy families toolkit to use throughout the course, and upon completion, are awarded a certificate of achievement.

How the programme supports families

  • Helps you build healthy routines and habits
  • Improves emotional wellbeing for both children and parents
  • Supports positive behaviour management and parenting confidence
  • Encourages balanced nutrition, physical activity, and reduced screen time.

Topics you might explore

For children aged 2 – 5 years
  • Building self belief and resilience as a parent
  • Understanding portion sizes, food groups, and healthy meals for young children
  • Encourage active play and movement
  • Managing stress and supporting children’s emotional development
  • Reducing screen time, bedtime struggles and mealtime stress.
For children aged 5 – 12 years
  • What makes a healthy family
  • Understanding children’s behaviour
  • Being a confident parent
  • Healthy swaps and mealtime habits
  • Negotiating family agreements
  • Supporting children as they grow older.

Am I eligible?

Your family may qualify if:

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You have a child aged 2-12 years who is above the recommended weight for their age and height. You can check this in a few seconds by entering their height and weight using the NHS calculator

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You live, your child attends school, or you are registered with a doctor in Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire, or Milton Keynes

How to get started

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Self-referral

Complete our online form. Once your form has been processed a health and wellbeing coach will be in touch to book your first appointment.

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Referral by health professionals

If you are a health professional, you can refer a patient through our online form.

Support outside of our area

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If you’re outside our service areas, you can explore a programme near you:

Refer your family

Discover tools and guidance to help you build healthier habits at your own pace.