A UNMC invention originally designed to help adults eat healthier is now used to promote good nutrition and exercise habits in children.
Habitwise, formerly known as A-wrist-a-tracs, uses color-coded bracelets based on the USDA food pyramid to track and promote healthy food habits throughout the day.
The lifestyle behavior modification system was so successful with adults that Habitwise CEO Sara Dreamer has partnered with Live Well Omaha Kids to explore its effectiveness for children.
“The purpose of the kids’ collection is to teach healthy habits in a fun and rewarding way,” Dreamer said. “The positive prompts worn on their wrists empower youngsters to take responsibility for their health and allow the entire family to participate in practicing healthy habits.”
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Habitwise for children was recently launched at a summer camp for fatherless children in Council Bluffs called Trailblazers. Pictured with the campers is Sara Dreamer, CEO of Habitwise. |
The children’s bracelets are based on the program’s 5-4-3-2-1 Go! campaign, which consists of:
- Five fruits and veggies;
- Four glasses of water;
- Three low-fat dairy products;
- Two hours or less of television or computer time; and
- One hour to “move around.”
The program works simply — once a behavior is performed, the corresponding bracelet is moved to the opposite wrist.
The bracelets unite knowledge with action or “do-ledge,” Dreamer said.
UNMC inventors look to make healthy habits easier to form
The concept came from inventors Kathi Healey, Ph.D., Terry Munsinger, Jill Skrabal and Dottie Norgard who realized that though people may know what is healthy for them, it is difficult to consistently practice healthy habits.
“Practical techniques to aid in changing behavior on a daily basis are a key factor in making changes,” said Dr. Healey, a nurse practitioner in the neurological sciences department at UNMC. “Studies show that individuals who monitor behaviors are more likely to succeed at modifying them.”
Program used at kids camp
Habitwise for children was recently launched at Trailblazers, a summer camp in Council Bluffs, Iowa, for fatherless children ages four to 16. Since 2000, Trailblazers has provided 350 children with the positive experience of summer camp. This year’s theme is “Total Fitness.”
“Working with children while they are young is the best time to instill lifelong healthy habits,” Dreamer said.
Other products available
Habitwise has a full line of products for women, men and children in relation to weight management, disease management, water intake and fitness.
Products can be found at specialty retailers, health stores and fitness centers throughout the United States or at Habitwise.com.