Dance studio encourages expression, helps kids stay fit and healthy North Shore Performing Arts Center: Photos of dance classes at the studio, located in Syosset, New York. Photos by: Katie Thompson |
North Shore Performing Arts Center Syosset,NY Helping students stay healthy and fit through dance |
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SYOSSET,NY- Childhood obesity has become one of America’s worst problems over the past several years, affecting one out of every three kids. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, between 16 and 33 percent of children are obese. North Shore Performing Arts Center in Syosset teachers students dance and self-discipline in a fun and energizing environment to help kids stay in shape. “Many of my students seem healthier and happier after only a few weeks of dance,” said Jen Randone, a senior instructor at North Shore. As one of the easiest medical conditions to recognize, it is among one of the hardest to treat. And now, as the problem grows worse, so does the cost to society. Over 300 thousand deaths and 100 billion dollars is what America pays for obesity each year. Poor diet and lack of exercise in childhood is one of the largest causes of continual obesity. “We have some mothers bring their young son’s in for lessons just to keep them away from their computers and televisions,” said Randone. “It teaches them to express themselves while staying healthy at the same time.” Some after school and athletic programs are fighting back, finding ways to include all children in activities that lessen their chances for childhood obesity. North Shore’s classes have the same goals. The center has spent the past 12 years creating classes that provide entertainment and exercise for students of all types. The center currently holds over one hundred classes a week, for over one thousand students. |
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