Does a daily exercise program using a popular video game help kids do better in school? That theory is the basis of a program by Amy Barnabi, a teacher at Claymont Middle School.

Union Hospital’s Workplace Wellness Department will present Barnabi’s THiiNKFit lifestyle program July 27, at 6 p.m., in the Union Hospital Rosenberry Conference Room.

In an effort to address the issue of childhood obesity in her district, Barnabi was granted permission to incorporate the video game Wii Fit into the sixth-grade curriculum at Claymont Middle School in 2010. A group of students volunteered to exercise for 30 minutes each morning using the Wii Fit video equipment. As a result, Barnabi said the children’s fitness level improved, as well as their reading and math skills, state test scores, and even school attendance when compared to another group at the school that did not exercise.

“Most of us are aware of the physical benefits of exercise, but few realize what 30 minutes of movement in the morning can also do for school or work productivity,” said Kim Nathan, manager of employee health and wellness and occupational medicine at Union Hospital. “We are excited to be able to have Amy present this program and share how her simple philosophy can be applied to people of all ages in a way that is fun.”

The THiiNKFit program is a free, family-friendly event open to all ages. Light refreshments and registration will begin at 5:30 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing in order to be able to participate in movement exercises. To reserve a spot, call 330-343-3311, ext. 2165.