Free screenings of a documentary focused on childhood obesity are scheduled for Menomonie, Eau Claire and Rice Lake in the second half of May as part of programs that will discuss the issue.
The screenings of “The Kids Menu” are sponsored by Mayo Clinic Health System, and will be followed by an expert panel discussing various aspects of the issue. A light meal will be served before the screenings. Advance registration for the programs is required.
“We are excited to have the opportunity to share this film,” said Mayo nutrition educator Katie Johnson. “One of our wellness focus areas is to help youth and families live healthier and make better eating choices.”
The film makes the point that child obesity is not the problem. Rather, it is a symptom of larger issues related to access to healthy and affordable food, lack of knowledge on what healthy foods are and the influence that peers have on a child’s food choices.
The three programs are scheduled for:
Menomonie: Tuesday, May 15 from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Mable Tainter Center for the Arts, 205 Main St. E. Registration must be completed by next Tuesday, either on the Classes & Events page at mayoclinichealthsystem.org, or by calling 1-866-375-7464 (toll-free).
Eau Claire: Thursday, May 24, 5 to 8 p.m. at the Eau Claire Children’s Theater, 1814 Oxford Ave. The registration deadline is May 17.
Rice Lake: Wednesday, May 30, 5 to 8 p.m. in The Hub, WITC, 1900 College Dr. Registration is open through May 23.