OUR HEALTHY FAMILY HOME WINNER! TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HEALTHY FAMILY HOME, VISIT www.ymca.net/healthyfamilyhome

Congratulations to the Forthaus Family of The Kirkwood- Webster Groves YMCA!

I'd like to introduce you to an amazing and deserving family!
The Forthaus’ are a family of seven consisting of Mom, Dad, (Todd and Tess) a set of 8-year old twins (Sam and Hannah)and a set of 4-year old triplets (Grace, Isabella and Caleb.) The Forthaus family has been a part of the Kirkwood – Webster Groves Family YMCA for the last twelve years. Todd & Tess live 2 blocks from the Webster Groves Family YMCA and spend time seven days a week at the Webster YMCA. “We walk to the Y everyday. We love the convenience and the friendly atmosphere the YMCA offers,” Tess commented.

Tess grew up in Webster Groves, MO. She remembers taking swim lessons and sports programs at the Webster YMCA since she was a child. “Being active has always been a part of my life.”

In 1996, before Todd & Tess began their family, they joined the Kirkwood - Webster Groves Family YMCA. “Staying physically fit was so important to us.” Once the children came along, the couple continued the practice of working out as well as began registering their kids for sports programs and lessons. All five children enjoy the kid’s gym.

What sets this family apart is that they actually incorporate healthy lifestyle practices at home as well. Since they have a set of twins & a set of triplets, Todd and Tess want to insure as parents, that they spent quality time with their children as well as set boundaries for healthy habits. “We do not want to use the TV as a babysitter. We rarely have the TV on in our house. If it is not raining, the kids play outside.” The Forthaus’, when not at the YMCA or playing soccer, enjoy visiting different parks in the community to change things up a bit. “There are so many inexpensive things to do in the community with your family, like playing at the park or walking to the library and getting books to read.”

“We are very routine. Families with multiples have to be. Boundaries are set for meals and snack times as well. We have a special bin set up with healthy snacks to choose from. The kids know if they want a snack, they need to choose from the snack bin.” Todd and Tess only offer dessert as a special treat two days a week, Friday and Saturday.

“We also are very open with our children & talk about things such as personal budget and allow their input for how we spend extra money.”

The Forthaus family is a tremendous example of a Healthy Family Home. We are honored to have them in our community and are an asset to the Kirkwood – Webster Family YMCA.