Cosumnes CSD to Hold Healthy Kids Extravaganza, Raise Awareness of Childhood Obesity

As part of National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, The Cosumnes Community Services District (CSD) Parks and Recreation Department will hold their 2nd annual Healthy Kids Extravaganza on Saturday, September 10 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Wackford Aquatic Complex.

During the past four decades, obesity rates have increased more than fourfold among children ages six to 11. More than 23 million children and teenagers, 31.8- percent are obese or overweight; a statistic that health and medical experts consider an epidemic.

“The growing rate of childhood obesity in our country is alarming,” said Patrick Larkin, Recreation Superintendent for the CSD. “The CSD recognizes the serious threat that obesity poses to the health of our children and the importance of decreasing its prevalence not only in Elk Grove, but across the entire United States.”

Obese young people are more at risk for associated adult health problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, stroke, several types of cancer and osteoarthritis.

“These are very severe consequences, but the good news is childhood obesity is entirely preventable,”  Larkin said. “The CSD wants to encourage children and teens to participate in physical activity and to engage in healthy eating habits so they can live longer, healthier lives.”

The Healthy Kids Extravaganza will encourage children to get moving with activities such as swimming, footgolf, fitness challenges, goal setting and learning about healthy food options. This free event will be fun and educational for the entire family.

What:              Healthy Kids Extravaganza

Where:            Wackford Community and Aquatic Complex, 9014 Bruceville Road

When:             Saturday, September 10

Time:              1 to 4 p.m.

Cost:               Free