health concerns
Fit Kids
Kids come in all shapes and sizes. But medical experts agree: One in four Americans is overweight. That ratio applies to our children as well. But your youngsters don't have to be a statistic. Start now to instill good-for-them habits that can last for life.
Don't put children on a diet. Do start them on the path to healthy eating by serving a variety of whole grains, lean meats, fish and poultry, vegetables and fruit. If possible, pack their school lunches instead of giving them carte blanche in the cafeteria line. A piece of cake or a soda and chips every once in a while is fine, just as long as "once in a while" isn't every day.
Let kids run. Today's society encourages sedentary activities such as surfing the Internet and playing Nintendo. While those activities can stimulate imagination, games like tag, capture the flag, kick the can, Frisbee and anything else that gets them outdoors and running around will go far in strengthening their bodies and helping them maintain a healthy weight. Save the indoor activities for after dinner.
Beat boredom by encouraging hobbies. Whether your children want to learn karate, pick up an instrument, play on a soccer team, take gymnastics or even browse through the library for another great book, hobbies keep both mind and body engaged — which is a good thing. Not only will you hear "Mom, I'm bored!" less often, but they'll be less apt to snack on foods their bodies really aren't hungry for.
Make exercise a family thing, and make it mandatory. Plan with your spouse to take everyone on a Saturday bike trip. Go to the park after church on Sunday for family football. Swim at a local recreation center or challenge your kids to a running race.
Whatever you do, show your children how good a healthy diet can be — and how much fun an active lifestyle is — by living it yourself. Like so much of life, these things are caught and taught.
Background Information
Health Problems, Hypochondria or Cries for Help?
When your adolescent repeatedly complains of not feeling well in the morning, how do you know whether to offer TLC and bed rest or escort him to the bus stop?
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
This advice won't eliminate all cases of SIDS, but it could save hundreds, if not thousands, of lives every year.
The Debut of Teeth
Though it's exciting for parents, getting teeth can be a pain in the mouth and elsewhere for babies.
Understanding Vaccines
Do you know the purpose of each of your child's vaccinations?
What Causes Vomiting and Diarrhea in Infants?
If your infant vomits or has diarrhea, be aware of these possible causes.
Questions and Answers
I'm trying to potty train my 3-year-old son who has Down syndrome. Does he have the capacity to understand at this age, considering his challenges?
Answer
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
Chronic Kids, Healthy Spirits
Two sisters write about parenting their children with chronic illnesses
Dear Friend
In the face of bad news, it helps to hear from someone who's already passed through the valley.
Too Young To Die
Living with a seriously ill child can seem too much to bear.
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
Bearing the Burden of a Child's Illness
In the midst of a devastating diagnosis, sometimes all you can do is to trust God.
Related Topics
Transitions: Having a Baby, Preparing for Adolescence
Life Pressures: Working Moms, Stay-At-Home Moms, Time for Family
Relationships: Parents and Adult Children, Blended Families
