TEACH YOUR CHILDREN
WELLNESS
One in three kids today is out of shape.
Many of them are overweight and under-exercised. The good news is that
every adult can teach kids to live healthier, more active lives. Here's
how:
SET A GOOD EXAMPLE - Let kids catch you in
the act. Take stairs instead of elevators, walk instead of driving for
short errands and dig into chores with gusto. Reach for fruits or nuts
at snack time. Don't be a couch potato.
PUSH THE POSITIVE - Reposition health and
fitness as feel-good habits rather than work. Talk about how much more
energy you have because you exercise or how much better you feel after
eating fruits and vegetables.
CONTROL SCREEN TIME - Set specific time
limits for watching TV, using the computer, and playing with video game
systems and other electronic devices. As for video games, encourage
those that include some physical activity.
FOLLOW THEIR LEAD - Not every child is going
to engage in sports. Help kids find other ways to add activity to their
interests. If they love to draw, go on a nature hike with sketchbook in
hand.
MAKE IT A HABIT - Set aside time every day
for physical activity, whether it's simply walking the dog or kicking
the soccer ball around. Have fresh, cool water on hand instead of
sugary drinks.
When it comes to kids, there is opportunity
in every moment to reinforce lifelong lessons.
