The gift of health and building healthy habits is one of the most important things we can give our children while they are in our household. Studies show that health in your childhood typically leads to health in your adulthood. It reduces the risk of developing many serious conditions including heart disease, obesity, and even cancer. This also means that it increases their life expectancy.
I have never heard of a parent not in agreement with the importance of healthy living, but raising children in an ever-increasing tech generation has its challenges. Many of our children would prefer to be glued to a device than outside until the streetlights come on. Couple that with trying to balance a schedule and all the daily demands of parenting, it can feel like an uphill battle. However, I know we are up for the challenge, so first thing’s first: The messaging.
“Oh, you’ve been putting on some weight, haven’t you?” “I hate the way this dress looks on me. No more carbs.” “I need to work out every day this week because I ate like trash this weekend.” Whether it is the way we talk to ourselves about our bodies, or the way other people comment about our body, we are setting the stage for the kind of dialogue our children will have with themselves about their bodies, and ultimately their self-esteem and self-worth. If we lead the conversation with love, we can not go wrong. We do not work out to negate something we ate, we work out because we want strong bodies to carry us through life. We do not eat healthily because we don’t want to be fat, we eat healthily because we need good nutrients to help us grow strong and it feels better for our bodies. These small changes in the way we communicate help set the stage for a positive relationship with food and exercise.
What are they excited to do? We don’t want to force them into things they do not enjoy because we are working to create positive associations. Give them a sense of ownership by allowing them to have input on the routine we are setting. Let them choose the activities and help set a schedule. Allow them to help with meal planning and cooking. Allow them to choose goals for themselves as well as their rewards. (remember to praise and encourage them along the way).
Finally, use technology to your advantage. If they want tech time, make it active. My kids are obsessed with Fortnite dances. I let them find them on YouTube, and we try to do the dances together. There are great programs like Danny Go and Cosmic Kids Yoga. VR headsets have gaming capabilities that keep you physically active. (Just remember to move your valuables.) You can also create a reward system that allows them to earn things, tech time included. With a little creativity and a lot of prioritization, I know we can do this. It is life-changing work.
What healthy habits do you try to implement with your kids?
