12:59 PM PST on Saturday, February 18, 2006

By JEAN ENERSEN / KING 5 News

SEATTLE – Obese children are not only teased by classmates, they face health problems usually only seen in grown-ups. New research shows obese kids double their chances of diabetes.

A unique local program is helping youngsters make big changes.

At the Highline YMCA the children are working on more than just their hockey game.

They're between eight and 11 years old, but already some are battling health issues like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and low self-esteem.

Their doctors have referred them to a program called Strong Kids. Now they're eating healthier and getting more activity than ever before.

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Games like hockey make exercise more fun.

“I used to eat just sweet stuff. And now I'm just eating vegetables, really good vegetables,” said 8-year-old Mina Tuimauga. “I feel prouder and stronger about myself.”

Marta Vaughn is a registered dietician with Children's Hospital. She says you won't find calorie counting or weigh-ins in this program. She believes a team approach -- with a nutrition coach, a physical activity instructor and a life coach -- is responsible for the success she's starting to see in these youngsters.

The emphasis is on empowering the kids to make their own choices.

"If you think to yourself what it means to be healthy on your own, you are more likely to make a behavior change because you've established that idea in your own mind,” she said.

Families are encouraged to attend the program too. Their participation is crucial if these children are going to make long-term change.

Mina's grandmother Mary Walker says they've both learned a great deal.

“We're trying seafood and all those kinds of things that don't add weight, but add nutrition,” she said.

She's confident the skills they take home will give her granddaughter a healthier future.

The children will continue with the program for the next 6 months to reinforce their new behaviors.

The YMCA is going to be expanding its program throughout Washington state in the upcoming months.