Encourage Your Kids to Make
Healthy Choices
Some kids are natural athletes. Others are happier picking dandelions in the outfield than getting in the game. And almost all children will run to the ice cream truck before they’ll hit the veggie stand. Eating right and exercising are important for all young ones. Here’s how to set yours down the path to a healthy life.
To control weight and fight disease,
children and teens need 60 minutes of
moderate to vigorous physical activity
every day of the week. Their diets should contain
a variety of foods with healthy nutrients. And
they should spend no more than one or two
hours daily in front of the TV or computer.
That’s daunting enough for adults. How do you get your munchkin to comply? These parenting strategies may help.
Set a Healthy Example
Children learn from what you do more than what you say. Eat plenty of healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products, lean meats, and whole grains.Ask kids to help plan and cook nutritious meals and eat them together. Start a new family game—reading food labels at the grocery store and making the healthiest pick.
Avoid rewarding children with food. And set concrete goals and limits so kids know what to expect. For instance, allow two desserts—other than fruit—per week.
Set similar, hard-and-fast rules about screen time. Go through the TV guide and pick shows you want to watch. When they’re over, turn off the tube.
Get Kids Moving
Make exercise a family affair, too. Plan active events together, like hiking or a minigolf game.Don’t force exercise or use it as a punishment. Instead, try balancing it with a less desired task. For instance, tell your child she can put off homework for 30 minutes while she rides her bike.
Tailor activities to your child’s age, ability, and interests. Buy active toys like balls for little ones. As children grow, help them find activities they enjoy. These could include sports, yoga, dance, skateboarding, or walking. A love of fitness in youth leads to a healthy lifestyle for years to come.
