Developmental Differences Program

An inclusive environment for the whole family to learn about healthy living  

This program offers similar lessons from our traditional Weight Management Program, but tailored to children with developmental differences. In this fun, free eight-week program, kids and families will:

• Meet for 90 minutes each week

• Learn the fundamentals of healthy eating

• Making challenging yet realistic goals

• Receive help creating strategies to improve a child’s acceptance of new foods

• Participate in fun, physical activities 

Our program schedule includes:

• Orientation: Welcome & overview of the program

• Class 1: Healthy lifestyle goal setting

• Class 2: Parent strategies

• Class 3: Nutrition 101

• Class 4: Healthy or treat foods

• Class 5: Make my plate

• Class 6: Healthy balance

• Class 7: Food Olympics

• Class 8: Graduation and maintenance

Convenient classes in your community

Our long-standing partnership with the YMCA of Dallas brings our Developmental Differences Program to convenient locations across the region. This allows you to fit classes into your family’s busy schedule – and makes it easier to make healthy changes happen. Families who complete the program also receive a free 10-week membership to their local YMCA.

Get started today

A referral from your child’s health care provider is required to participate in our Developmental Differences Program. The program is for children ages 8-14 with a high body weight and a BMI over the 85th percentile. Ask your child’s provider to complete a referral form and fax it to 214-456-0194. Classes are offered in English and Spanish and are offered virtually.

Kick start a new, healthy lifestyle for your family with Get Up & Go by Children’s Health℠. The Developmental Differences Program is a fun, 10-week program that teaches families and kids the fundamentals of healthy eating.

We recognize that children with developmental differences may prefer to eat a limited number of foods, which may cause weight gain.  Designed by physicians, psychologists, and dietitians, our free program takes a team approach to building healthy habits, tailored to children with developmental differences. Inclusive classes offer freedom and opportunities for parents and children to learn in a flexible format. Families will create a plan that works for them – whether it’s a positive way to introduce new foods or recommendations about screen time. We offer an open and inviting learning environment where we understand that every child is unique. Our goal is to offer a practical and fun way to help your child develop a healthy lifestyle.