In an effort to combat childhood obesity, Healthy Starts at Home, a parent education course, has been created.

Founder of the in-house weight loss center Structure House in North Carolina, Dr. Gerard J. Musante initiated this eight-week course to help parents stop childhood obesity in their own household.

"Studies show that parent interventions can be highly effective in weight loss management for children," Musante said, "and we believe this program will help parents take necessary action to ensure the health of their children."

The program, taught by a clinical psychiatrist and registered dietrician, features eight classes featuring topics such as body image, healthy snacking, planning nutritious meals, and exercise.

The small group of parents, whose children range from ages six to 16, meets for 75 minutes per session. Healthy Starts at Home offers behavioral techniques for parents to use to keep their children healthy and happy.

"With the constant rise in childhood obesity," said Musante, "it is important to educate parents on how to create a healthy environment at home.

For more information on Healthy Starts at Home, call (919) 313-3135 or visit www.structurehouse.com.

Address: Structure House, 3017 Pickett Road, Durham, NC 27705; (800) 553-0052.