Young children and their families are being encouraged to improve both their fitness and emotional wellbeing by Brent Council.
The 'Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do It' (MEND) scheme is free and targets overweight and obese children aged seven to 13.
As well as encouraging young children to increase their physical activity through exercise classes they are also persuading parents to improve their eating habits.
Parents are offered advice and support on a range of issues, varying from bullying to diet to personal development and making health-ier choices.
Councillor Bob Wharton (Lib Dem), responsible for children and families, said: "MEND is a unique course that supports overweight and obese children by getting the whole family involved in making healthier choices and following a more active lifestyle."
Parents are also impressed with the course.
Audra Williams-Ryan, mother of 10-year-old Joseph, said: "The kids have thoroughly enjoyed it. Joe's exercising more and is more confident.
"It's made him think for himself about what he's eating.
"And I think that's happened because they haven't been told they can't have anything, it's their choice."
The 18 two-hour courses offered by MEND are delivered by trained sports coached, school nurses and nutritionists. Twenty London boroughs have launched the scheme.
Local children in Brent and their families are now needed for the September intake as well as for future programmes which each have space for 15 young people and their parents/carers. If you live in Brent and would like to participate call Marimba on 020 8937 3055.
