Parents (and Grandparents) Lead by Example!

Be a role model for you children!  In the process, you'll get healthier and fitter too! In the state of Georgia, nearly 40% of all children are obese.  Georgia ranks 2nd highest in childhood obesity.  Considering that obesity is highly preventable, this is tragic.   Parents need to take more responsibility for their children's health. If you want your children to be more active, you're going to have to be more involved.  Get your kids in the habit of exercising and keeping themselves healthy.  The earlier you start with them, the better.   Here are few things to keep in mind: Be a role model and take responsibility:  If you're not staying active, your children are not going be active.  The old "do as I say, not as I do" does not work with this generation of children.  The more TV you watch, the more TV they watch.  If you play video games a lot, so will they.  Likewise, if you go outside to kick the soccer ball around, they will too.  Parents who eat healthy are more likely to have children who eat healthy. Keep it fun:  Don't be a drill sergeant!  The attention span of  most children under 12 have short attention spans.  Do things in short bursts.  Kids like to be sprinters, kickers and jumpers, not long distance swimmers and runners.  Give them high fives and hugs when they do something good (this is especially important). Organize play:  Activities with a little discipline such as sports, martial arts, dance and gymnastics are still a good thing.  Check with your local JCC, YMCA, and specialized facilities like gymnastic studios and even personal training studios may have special programs. NEVER REWARD WITH FOOD: Too often, parents, teachers and others give children cookies, ice cream, and candy as a reward or just to make them feel good.  This is influencing negative habits that will last a life time.  Instead of rewarding them with food, reward with stickers, coloring books, or a new ball.  Even better, give them attention! written by: Kelly Huggins, A-CPT Exercise Science, B.S. Fitness Together - Fitness/Nutrition Coach