According to Child Health Data, in 2007, over twenty-eight percent of youth aged 10-17 years old in Hawaii were identified as overweight or obese. Childhood obesity is a serious medical condition that, if left untreated, could lead to other health challenges such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and depression.
Improving a child’s diet and exercise habits is one of the best things that can be done in order to combat obesity as well as protect the health of the child now and in the future.
The N.E.W. Keiki program is Hawaii’s only family-based multidisciplinary intervention program targeting children and adolescents. Created in collaboration with the YMCA of Honolulu in 2012, the program teaches keiki and their family about nutrition, healthy home environments, fitness, medical co-morbidities, mental health and family support issues.
Programs & Services available at:
Kapiolani 808-983-8500 Ext 2
The N.E.W. Keiki program is led by a multidisciplinary team composed of a pediatrician, registered dietician, physical therapist, fitness trainer, behavioral health specialist, nurse care coordinator, chef, and program facilitator.
Family participation is crucial to success. Patients and families commit to our 12 month program, beginning with an intensive phase of weekly sessions over 2-3 months. Visits are scheduled in the afternoons and evenings to minimize interruption to school and work schedules.
The curriculum is composed of classes themed on nutrition, healthy home environments, fitness, medical co-morbidities, mental health and family support issues. There are formal follow-up sessions after the initial intensive phase to keep families motivated, engaged and accountable over the subsequent 12 months.
Additionally, N.E.W. Keiki organizes extracurricular activities such as hikes, farmer’s market tours, and other gatherings to continue to engage families to stay motivated and troubleshoot challenges to change.
N.E.W. Keiki Program Options:
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Keiki Program |
Adolescent Program |
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| Locations |
Various community locations, including:
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| Duration | 12 Months | 12 Months |
| Visit Frequency |
Weekly x 9 weeks 6 month and 12 month follow-ups |
Weekly x 12 weeks 6 month and 12 month follow-ups |
| Visit Times |
Tuesday or Wednesday Evenings |
Tuesday or Wednesday Afternoons |
Program Requirements:
- Child must be 7-18 years of age
- Requires active support and participation of family members
- Must be referred by child’s physicians and/or healthcare centers
- Screening labs to evaluate for medical co-morbidities
To refer patients please complete and fax downloadable Physician Referral Form (below) to 808-983-6056.
For more information on childhood obesity or the N.E.W. Keiki program, please call 808-983-8500 Ext 2.