How To Help Your Kids Live A Healthy, Active Life

Jet, April 23, 2001

America is facing a severe obesity epidemic that is jeopardizing the health of millions. And we are passing our bad habits down to our children.

The latest government figures show more youngsters than ever--1 in 10--are overweight and out of shape, largely due to inactivity and junk-laden diets. Since 1980, the percentage of overweight youths has doubled and is rising steadily, putting them at risk for serious diseases.

Whether your child will grow up fit or face a lifetime struggle with health and weight problems is up to you. Leave them with a legacy of good health.

* PLAY AND WORK HARD. Sedentary lifestyles set the stage for obesity, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis, stroke and other health problems. And childhood obesity can lead to low self-esteem and obesity in adulthood. Get your children off to an energetic start in life by engaging them in active pastimes: running, jumping, playing outside. Also, give them active chores to perform, like vacuuming, mopping, washing the car or mowing the lawn.

* MAKE FITNESS A FAMILY AFFAIR. Don't just tell your kids to go play. Play with them! Studies show that children are more likely to be active if their parents or siblings are active. Find an activity that the whole family can enjoy together. Roller blade or ride bikes. Round up the neighborhood kids for lawn football or shoot hoops in the park. Take a swim or a walk. Jump rope; play hide-and-seek; have a pillow fight.

* SIGN YOUR CHILD UP FOR A SPORT OR RECREATION PROGRAM. Venus, Tiger and Marion Jones all have one thing in common: parents who supported and encouraged them in sports. Tennis, golf, track, dance, gymnastics, martial arts and other sports and recreation activities develop children's natural talents, teach them discipline and satisfy their need for fitness. Find out where your children's interest lies and let them explore it through a school- or community-sponsored program.

* CULTIVATE A LOVE FOR HEALTHY FOODS IN CHILDREN. Kids learn by imitating. Let your children see you preparing, eating and enjoying nutritious foods and they'll do the same. Don't make junk food off limits, but don't make it so readily available. Serve balanced meals with plenty of vegetables, fruits and milk for growing bodies, and keep an ample supply of healthy snacks on hand. With children, presentation is everything. If healthy food looks good, they'll be more inclined to try it.

* DON'T EXPOSE YOUR CHILDREN TO HARMFUL HABITS. Children exposed to second-hand smoke are more prone to ear and chest infections, even sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Health experts also say parents who smoke, drink or use drugs are more likely to have children who grow up to do the same. Keep your kids away from drugs, alcohol and tobacco by talking to them about the dangers of substance abuse. But don't stop there. Practice what you preach. If you must smoke or drink, avoid doing it around your children.