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Step 1
We all know that children should eat more fruits and vegetables. The tricky part is getting them to do it! The next time you're at the grocery store, scan the magazines at the checkout. You'll find magazines filled with recipes to make just for children. Many contain ingenious ways of dressing up fruits and veggies. When a potato turns into a "sailboat", a child is more likely to eat it!
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Step 2
If you eat out at fast-food restaurants, eat at one with a playland. That way, after your child eats, he or she can burn off those calories.
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Step 3
Make occassional homeade "happy meals". Stuff a lunch box with healthy food. Stock up on cheap toys from the dollar store and put one inside the lunch box. Let children know that healthy food can be happy food, too.
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Step 4
Give your child chores to do. Raking the lawn or cleaning a room burns lots of calories off! Chores teach your child responsibility, too.
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Step 5
"Prizes" are found in many unhealthy foods, such as sweet cereals. Try sneaking a "prize" into a bag of carrots or a box of raisins!
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Step 6
Take "takeout" to the park. After eating, you and your children can get some exercise.
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Step 7
Be a role model. Keep YOUR weight down, as well.
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Step 8
Talk to your children about the emotional impact obesity has on a child. Sadly, obese children may be ridiculed at school. Loneliness and low self-esteem are common in obese children.
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Step 9
Explain the physical risks of obesity to your child. Heart disease and diabetes are associated with childhood obesity.
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Step 10
If you frequent the movies, eat before you go. Most movie houses lack nutritional snacks. After the movie, treat everyone to a frozen yogurt or a small ice cream cone.
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Step 11
Buy your teenager an exercise bike to ride while watching television or chatting on the phone.
Comments
moonglow said
on 9/25/2008 You are very welcome! I hope it helps some families.
veryirie said
on 9/24/2008 Thank you for this well thought out article! Our children are our future!