Staff – OUTSTANDING! Amy McArthur is the owner and director of Stretch-n-Grow in the Jackson area. She is a Registered and Licensed Dietitian and a Certified Youth Fitness Instructor. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from the University of Southern Mississippi. Driven by the overwhelming statistics of overweight and obesity, especially those of children, Amy was moved to apply her expertise in nutrition and fitness to improve the nutritional health of both children and adults.
All Stretch-n-Grow instructors are Certified Youth Fitness Instructors, are continually educated in exercise and nutrition for young children, and are CPR and First Aid Certified. They all meet the guidelines set forth by the Mississippi State Department of Health for childcare workers. Our comprehensive training program is rigorous and on-going in order to maintain the integrity of our program. Dance, Cheer, and Sports instructors each have extensive experience in their fields. Liability insurance is provided for each instructor.
History – LONG! Stretch-n-Grow originated in Galveston, Texas in 1992. After an intense study and the discovery of alarming statistics concerning the health status of America’s young children, the founders of Stretch-n-Grow set out on their mission to change the course for children everywhere. Stretch-n-Grow has expanded to over 400 cities across America, Canada, England, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong.
Curriculum Standards – RIGOROUS! Our Youth Fitness Guidelines are in compliance with AFAA (Aerobic & Fitness Association of America), ACE (American Council on Exercise), ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine) and AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics). Our curriculum and exercise glossary are safe, effective, and age-appropriate.
Advisory Board – IMPRESSIVE! Our exercises and curriculum were developed under the supervision of an advisory board consisting of pediatricians, nutritionists, educators and fitness professionals. Our Advisory Board and Affiliate Advisory Council regularly review our program to ensure that our participants enjoy the most effective and safe exercises available for children.
Mission
· To lay a foundation for a healthy lifestyle and a positive attitude toward well-being
· To establish life-long patterns of fitness and good eating habits
· To prepare children for participation in physical education and athletic programs
· To empower parents and child care providers in setting a healthy example for children
