Childhood Obesity - 6 Steps to Raising Healthy Kids

by Mila Sidman

Childhood obesity is on the rise and has become an important
topic amongst parents, politicians and many others.

Our lifestyles have drastically changed. We don’t walk as much
as we used to. We eat pre-packaged or fast foods instead of home
cooked meals. And what exercise can compete with video games?

These days kids would rather spend time on the computer than go
outside and kick a ball around or ride their bikes. And with all
the junk food advertisements aimed at children by the media, us
parents definitely have our jobs cut out for us.

Times have definitely changed but that doesn’t mean we have to
completely give up. It’s just a matter of putting some simple
measures into place.

Here are some easy tips to ensure your kids develop a life-long
healthy lifestyle.

1. Limit your kids television, computer and video games time.
This may not be easy at first, but be persistent. Suggest an
activity they can do, or better yet go outside with them and
join in. Children learn through example, so if you’re all set to
go for a bike ride they may just want to join you.

2. Get your kids involved in the family food shopping. Make a
list of healthy foods everyone agrees on and point out the
health benefits to your kids. You’ll be surprised at how open to
eating healthy your kids can be. You don’t have to drastically
cut out the cakes and cookies altogether, but instead let each
child choose one item they can enjoy as a special treat. This
teaches kids to learn about moderation and that , yes, they can
have cookies or chocolates as treats not as regular food
staples.

3. Don’t super size your kids. Be careful to serve kid
appropriate food portions. Remember, if they’re not fully
satisfied they can simply go back for seconds. Also, teach them
to eat slowly and take breaks between mouthfuls to allow the
brain to register when it’s full.

4. Try to avoid branding any foods as "bad for you". Instead
focus on teaching your kids everything can be enjoyed in
moderation. This takes the pressure off them and gets rid of the
diet mentality which can set them up for a life of yo-yo
dieting.

5. Be more active! Simply stated, kids need more activity in
their lives. The same goes for all of us, if we eat more
calories than we’re using up we will gain weight. It’s as simple
as that. So get out there and make it fun. Try not to use the
word "exercise". You want this to be a lifestyle habit not
something that has to be done.

6. Be a positive role model. Rather than focusing on changes for
your child only, change as a family. Have a family meeting and
talk about healthy eating and good nutrition. Explain all the
benefits of an active lifestyle and let your kids suggest some
simple activities you can do together. Start slowly and build
up. If you set a good example your kids will eventually follow.
It may not be easy at first, but persist. The benefits will far
outweigh the tantrums and tears you may need to put up when you
first change your lifestyle!. Your kids will thank you for it in
the long run.

About the author:
Mila Sidman is a mom of three and the creator of
www.easy-kid-recipes.com. A leading website providing simple,
kid-friendly recipes, nutritional information, meal planning
tips, fun kid cooking projects and much more.