Camp SHINE

Abstract

According to the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES), in 2008, more than one third of children and adolescents were overweight or obese. This article describes the use of a residential, medically supervised summer camp to help overweight and obese children prevent excessive summertime weight gain. The theoretical framework guiding the program was Rosenstock’s health belief model (HBM). The weight loss results are included as well as information concerning adaptations of physical activities, environmental design considerations, and creating a supportive atmosphere, to meet the unique needs of this population. Data show that weight loss can be achieved for overweight/obese children/teens in residential camps designed to develop healthy behaviors.