Thu, Dec 28, 2017 at 08:40 PM

SmartStart gives fifth-graders a fun way to learn about puberty

Almost 200 Boaz fifth-graders learned that it's smart - and fun - to learn about the changes they're going through.

Puberty class is not usually considered to be fun, but when students get to attend a SmartStart session to learn about growing up, they have a really good time. 

Nearly 200 students at Boaz Intermediate School went through SmartStart classes recently. Separate boys-only and girls-only sessions were held, using games and Q&As to get the information across. Marshall Medical sponsors the SmartStart program, which provides a free class for fifth-graders in any Marshall County school. 

Boys in the Boaz class were led by Dr. Michael Luther of Sand Mountain Family Practice, while the girls were taught by Dr. Vicki Wallis of MedAssist. The informative session was followed by an exercise segment led by Ryne Jordan, an exercise physiologist at TherapyPlus South. 

The fifth-graders enjoyed snacks and received a backpack that included written material to use in continuing the discussion with a parent. 

SmartStart available to all fifth-graders

SmartStart is a component of Marshall Medical’s HealthyHer program, with this particular program designed for both boy and girl pre-teens facing puberty. 

The SmartStart program is available free of charge to any school in Marshall County. It includes a meal and a backpack filled with goodies including a DVD of healthy exercises. Get more information by contacting Marshall Medical’s marketing department at (256) 571-8018.