Like a lot of kids, when Patrick Edmonds used to get home from school he'd munch down on chippies and biscuits.

But that all changed when the 10-year-old joined Sport BOP's Active Families programme back in November; these days the biscuits and chips are out, while healthier snacks like popcorn are in.

Since joining Sport BOP's Active Families programme in November, Patrick Edmonds is not healthier and fitter, he's a lot more confident and happier too. Supplied Photo.

The Bay of Plenty District Health Board funded Active Families programme supports families to make healthier lifestyle choices through increasing their levels of physical activity and changing their eating habits.

Patrick's mother Kelly Cousins says even though her son played sport, he was losing motivation and struggled to keep up. Concerned by where Patrick's health was heading, Kelly turned to her GP for support.

'I needed help, nothing was working, we were having food battles, it was pretty stressful. Like a lot of kids he was pretty obsessed with junk food,” says Kelly.

'Like most kiwi boys Patrick loves his food. The programme has shown us healthy alternatives. We still have treats, but we've cut back to once a week rather than every time we go to the supermarket.”

The programme sees Patrick meet up with Western Bay of Plenty Active Families Advisor Lena Kairau once a month, as well as participating in group activities like treasure hunts around the Mount.

It's through these group sessions with other children that Patrick discovered a new passion for multisport events, says Kelly.

'With the group Patrick did the Weetbix triathlon in Rotorua. It was totally new for him and he loved it. He's gone on to do one at the Mount and other duathlons.”

Kelly says while she makes a conscious effort to find ways to work activity into Patrick's routine like biking, doing Friday night walks up the Mount, she's noticed a change in Patrick as well.

After school he now often takes himself off to do something outside rather than sitting in front of the screen, she explains.

'He's shaping up to really enjoy being active. He's keen to give new things a go. He's got more confidence. I think he just feels good about himself.”