Stretch-n-Grow
Stretch-n-Grow is part of an international fitness program for children. Twice a week (once in the House and once in the Family Room) a certified fitness professional teaches an exciting programme for kids from as young as 18 months to over seven years old. The program teaches children the fundamentals of a healthy lifestyle with weekly emphasis on exercise and good food choices, self-esteem, safety, hygiene, and environmental issues.
A serious illness can result in a child (or their sibling) losing self esteem — particularly those with disabilities. With encouragement from the programme leader, the children regain confidence in their bodies, and themselves.
The Stretch-n-Grow sessions also offer a break from the hospital environment. Participants enjoy working out to music, dancing and some specific motor-development exercises, games and quizzes. Every session is different and is customised to the occasionally wide-ranging needs of the children attending.
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The RMH Auckland Trust funds and governs Ronald McDonald House Auckland (48 rooms) and the Ronald McDonald House Family Room (13 short stay critical care rooms) in Starship Hospital. It is a registered community charitable trust comprised of the following partners: Auckland District Health Board, Child Cancer Foundation, Heart Children, The Rotary Club of Downtown Auckland, Ronald McDonald House Charities and 2 community representatives. The House and Family Room provide a ‘home away from home’ for over 3,000 families of children with life-threatening illnesses each year. The Trust through its staff and partnerships actively fundraises throughout New Zealand to achieve the $2,300,000 p.a. it needs to run the facilities and support its families. Charity Registration number: CC23591