Addams Event Encourages Healthy Lifestyle, Habits

Do you know your numbers?

And not just your cell phone, ATM pin or Internet pass code.

We're talking about the number of calories you should be eating daily and, conversely, burning to maintain a healthy weight. We ask again: Do you know your numbers?

A recent poll showed that about two-thirds of the population cannot accurately estimate how many calories they need or need to burn on a daily basis. To manage weight, however, it's important to have a grasp on not only how much you’re eating, but how much you’re burning off.

Last week Fuel Up to Play 60 adviser Dorothy Andrews and assistant principal Carmen Killingworth worked with a wide range of staff at the school to provide answers to these questions at the school’s first family fitness night.

The first-time event was well organized and seamlessly operated. Visitors were greeted at the front door and given a packet full of information before being directed to different healthy stations, which were established on-site.

In the library, school nurse Denise Sarpy tackled questions about consumption in easy-to-understand terms offering examples and alternatives to help keep children’s weight in a healthy range.

"We must be an example for our children," Sarpy said. "Families can make small changes like eating together, turning off the television and cutting back on things that are high in sugar like pop and juice that only add empty calories."

The presentation was only one component of a multifaceted program that engaged students and parents in health promoting activities.

Around the corner from the library, food service manager Susan Shuttleworth along with FAC teachers Martha Zoglauer and Norma Ford had prepared a tasty and nutritious spread that included fruit smoothies, fruit, veggies, dips and healthy sandwiches.

The elevated stage on the back side of the cafeteria was alive with activity as students played floor hockey. Just below, Addams physical education instructor Cherie Jackson had transformed the gym into a fun exercise/dance center where participants were invited to move.

Also on hand was Bolingbrook Park District fitness instructor Annette Damron, who led classes on kids Zumba.

"This is such a great turnout," said Addams Principal Chris Schaeflei. "Mrs. Killingsworth and everyone worked so hard to put this together. I’m happy to see everyone enjoying themselves."