FAQ

Where can The L.E.A.N. Programs^®be taught?
There are many different venues or existing groups where teaching the program is appropriate:

What are the requirements for becoming a Certified L.E.A.N. Coach?
In order to successfully become a certified coach, an individual must:

a. Hold a professional degree or license from an accredited institution or have some teaching experience (in small groups or classrooms)
b. Attend the weekend L.E.A.N. Coach Certification Program.
c. Complete the certification exam with a passing grade.
d. Achieve satisfactory score on practicum.

What can a Certified L.E.A.N. Coach do with their certification?
Certification authorizes a L.E.A.N. Coach to:

a. Independently teach and facilitate any L.E.A.N. Programs for which the certification exists.
b. Use Dr. Sears’ L.E.A.N. program name and materials subject to terms & conditions.
c. Utilize L.E.A.N. Coaches Website resources
d. Give informational seminars or informal talks in the community as a means of marketing or publicizing classes.

What does a Certified L.E.A.N. Coach charge for classes?
As an independent contractor you make the decision on what to charge. Currently in the programs we run the average fee is $75 per person, with a class size of 10 to 20 persons.

Do you provide any marketing support?
Certified L.E.A.N. Coaches are either adding this program to their existing business, or, they are providing the program on behalf of their employer, or, they are independent contractors. Therefore, L.E.A.N. Group, LLC does not provide business planning or promotion for L.E.A.N. Coaches. However, we do provide the following:

a. Insights into promoting the courses to potential venues/groups as part of training
b. Templates for presentations and press releases.
c. Availability of marketing collateral; brochures, posters, flyers etc.
d. Listing of instructors on the DrSearsLEAN.com website.

Are these programs just for overweight and obese children?
No, The L.E.A.N. Programs^® are for parents and families of all shapes & sizes.

Are there any limitations to what I can do with my L.E.A.N. Coach Certification?
Yes. As a Certified L.E.A.N. Coach it is not acceptable to:

- Present oneself as an employee, agent or other representative of The LEAN Group, LLC.
Exceptions: Master Trainers or consultants
- Offer independent training, certification or licensure for Dr. Sears’ L.E.A.N. Programs or on behalf of The LEAN Group, LLC.
- Re-sell any L.E.A.N. Program guides, books, DVDs or other materials except for use in an official L.E.A.N. Program class.

What are the requirements for maintaining the Certified L.E.A.N. Coach status?
Recertification is granted to those who maintain a favorable status with The L.E.A.N. Group, LLC as evidenced by:

- Completion of the Certified L.E.A.N. Coach Recertification form
- Payment of annual $145 recertification fee.
- Maintenance of professional standards of conduct as defined by The LEAN Group, LLC.

The benefits of maintaining certification are:

- Current posting on DrSearsLEAN.com website, including L.E.A.N. Coach name, class certifications and contact information.
- Program updates
- Access to a Certified Master Trainer
- Advanced notice of new certification programs, products, materials, and information.

How can participants know that I am a Certified L.E.A.N. Coach?
Participants will know they are taking the class from a Certified L.E.A.N. Coach by:

- The presentation of their L.E.A.N. Coach certification with an official seal
- The Certified L.E.A.N. Coaches name, city and state of residence posted in the directory of Certified L.E.A.N. Coaches on the
Dr. Sears’ L.E.A.N. Website.

What are the evaluation methods used in the L.E.A.N. Coach Certification training?
Practicum ~ Candidates will present lessons on key concepts and skills from the training.
Final written exam which consists of multiple choice, true/false, matching, fill-in-the-blank and essay questions. The exam is given at the conclusion of the final day of training and a passing grade is required.

What if I come to the training but cannot stay to complete the exams?
Should unforeseen personal or medical circumstances arise preventing a participant from completing either or both of the exams, the Master Trainer will be available for direction or guidance. However, if the certification exams are not completed due to travel needs or personal scheduling conflicts, Certified L.E.A.N. Coach status will not be granted. The L.E.A.N. Group, LLC reserves the right to determine if exceptions and/or accommodations are appropriate on a case by case basis.

Once I take the training how will I know I am certified?
You will receive your officially stamped Certificate of Completion in the mail approximately two weeks following completion of training.

Would this be a way to diversify or enhance my current profession or practice?
Definitely. If you are in contact with parents every day in relation to their children, this program will help you be even more successful at making a difference in those families’ lives. Professionals who would benefit from certification include: RN’s, medical assistants, clinic staff, NP’s, PA’s, health educators, parent group leaders, and foster care providers.

Do I have to go to a location for the training?
Yes, for the initial training you must attend a 2 day training class in person. However, the training for new courses being offered will offered virtually.

What is the Parent Guide?
The Parent Guide is a 72 page book that is used during every class; there are several opportunities for parents to take notes in their books during class so the book becomes a useful reference book once the class is complete. The Parent’s Guide is required for each parent, caregiver, or couple.

Will I have to continuously order the Parent’s Guides for distribution?
You will need to order these books on an ongoing basis to distribute to each new parent or couple participating in your class.

What is the goal of the L.E.A.N. Programs?
To educate and inform every parent on how to help their children grow up with healthy eating and exercise habits. To teach parents how to shape young tastes, model healthy behaviors for their children and practice healthy shopping, food preparation and eating behaviors. As a result of educating parents, children develop healthy habits that improve their behavior and academic performance and allow them to grow into healthy and happy adults.

Are the L.E.A.N. Programs available in Spanish?
Currently, the L.E.A.N. Start Program is available in Spanish.

Is L.E.A.N. part of a franchise or affiliated with any specific product or diet?
No, L.E.A.N. Is not a franchise or affiliated with any product or diet.

Are payment plans available?
Yes, payment plans are available. The standard payment plan breaks the registration fee into three manageable payments.
Please click here for more details.

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