How do we stop this epidemic of overweight and obese children? Whose fault is it that the problem exists? These are frequently asked questions.
The first one should be answered but the second one should be disregarded.
Looking for someone who is at fault takes attention away from the real problem; getting our children healthy.
A lot of the work in this department is going to have to fall on the parents.
We are responsible, and we need to remember that.
That doesn't make us the bad guy.
What it really means, though, is that we need to learn some skills to help our kids.
1) Get out and play ball: That's what we did as kids.
If it wasn't a league, then a bunch of neighborhood kids would get together with whatever equipment they could muster and play.
Why is that important? It's actually well disguised exercise.
Running, jumping, batting or a cool layup, it's all aerobic exercise.
2) Be a good example: This will be one of the hard parts, but many of us parents are not at our ideal weight, either.
Eating a healthy diet, whether the kids can see you or not, is going to set the right example.
So will finding a way to exercise.
However, it's important also to have a good attitude about it.
Complaining or acting long suffering will be counterproductive.
Instead, find healthy foods you like and a sport or exercise activity you can enjoy.
3) Reduce stress: Kids feel stress every bit as much as we do.
In fact, when we're stressed it makes them more so.
Teach them the coping mechanisms you've learned and they will feel a lot better.
4) Set limits: Part of the problem we're dealing with is all the technology around us.
Set limits to how long they can use the computer, play video games, text message and all of that sort of inactivity.
That will give them more time to do healthy things such as play.
5) School lunches not cutting it? Brown bag: Instead of complaining and letting the kids eat the stuff anyway, pack them a lunch.
They can help you choose the contents at the grocery store so you're sure they'll eat it.
You may also want to write the school board in your area with your concerns.
If enough parents do that, healthier choices may wind up on the menu.
6) Teach nutrition: Don't depend on the schools to do it for you.
Explain to your kids about healthy eating and, just like school lunches, have them help you pick out what food to have at home.
All of these suggestions will show your children that healthy eating is a lifelong thing, not something parents make their kids do.
This way, we'll end both the child obesity epidemic, we could even win the adult obesity epidemic.