Childhood obesity is on an alarming increase
When compared to all the bygone decades, the last decade has seen an alarming increase in the number of cases of childhood obesity. Severe shortage of physical activities, consumption of junk foods and other environmental factors has lead to an increase in the number of obese children. Studies have also shown that unfit children grow up and become susceptible to a large number of diseases such as diabetes, heart ailments and weak bones. In order to lead a long and healthy life, it is important that children be taught the importance of the right food and fitness regimes so that they can grow up to be healthy adults.
Parents need to take initiative
Parents have to play a major role in instilling knowledge about the right food and fitness and the best way to do it is to lead by example. When your child watches you eat healthy food and workout regularly, he or she is more likely to become health conscious. It is not an easy job to restrain children from eating their favorite junk foods.
However, adopting certain techniques such as setting limits on consumption of unhealthy foods and encouraging children to participate in more physical activities such as sports can help a great deal in developing consciousness about food and fitness.
Schools play an even greater role than parents
Children in the elementary stage age are greatly influenced by their school environments and teachers. By encouraging games and sports in school and providing healthy food at meal times, schools can develop good habits in children. In children of higher classes, schools can also organize regular seminars and lectures by specialists and arrange interactive sessions that will develop awareness about food and fitness. School canteens have to be devoid of fizzy drinks, colas and foods that are high in sugar and saturated fat content. Schools can also hold sessions for parents and guide them regarding how to instill good food and fitness habits in children.
Take children on outdoor trips
Weekends can be utilized in a great way. Instead of letting your kids lounge in front of the television or be hooked on to the PlayStation all day long, you can take them out for sports, camping, picnics, trekking or hiking. Making them realize the joy of outdoor activities can be a great way to get them off their PlayStations and on to play grounds. Children who are active in the initial stages of their lives tend to follow healthy living practices all through.