The Coca-Cola Company

Rise 'N' Shine With Go Kids!

October 20, 2006 edition

As concerns about children's activity levels and the obesity issue continue to capture the public's attention, a Coca-Cola sponsored nationwide program "Go Kids!" has been ensuring that kids in New Zealand get regular exercise.

The Go Kids! program was launched in November 2003 to provide fun physical activities at more than 750 out-of-school program around the country. Go Kids! is enjoyed by tens of thousands of children each year after school, during school holidays -- and now also in the mornings before school begins.

The latest addition to the modular program, the "Breakfast Module," incorporates gentle stretching exercises and recipes suggestions for healthy breakfast options.

Go Kids! (www.gokids.org.nz) is developed and run by the OSCAR (Out of School Care and Recreation) Foundation, which was created as part of a community partnership with Coca-Cola.

The OSCAR program assists and enhances children’s social, emotional, physical, creative, cultural and academic development, providing age appropriate activities that ensure a relaxed and enjoyable time in a safe and caring environment.

The morning addition to the popular Go Kids! program is part of the Foundation's mission to provide quality out-of-school care and is an essential addition, given the current concerns about children's health and obesity.