Obesity in children is growing at an alarming rate. Did you know, that according to the American Obesity Association, 30% of children (ages 6-11) are overweight and 15% are obese? Overweight children are at high risk to become overweight adults, so how do we stop this trend?
With the advancement in technology we are living more sedentary lifestyles. Instead of our kids wanting bicycles and baseballs, they are wanting ipods, cell phones, and new computers. It is time now to turn off that television and computer, and put the video games away. Limit your child?s use of television, computers, etc. to no more than 2 hours a day.
You can encourage your children to exercise by setting an example. If your children see you being active, they are more likely to be active. Here are just a few ways to get you and your family off the couch:
1. Get a family membership to your local YMCA. Set aside at least 3 nights a week to workout together for at least one hour per visit.
2. After dinner, take the kids and go for a walk or bike ride around your neighborhood.
3. Do some yard work together. Rake the lawn, pick up brush, plant some flowers, or prune the shrubs.
4. Go to the park and play a game of basketball, volleyball, or go rollerblading.
5. Go trail hiking together at your nearest State Park.
There are lots of ways to be active and have fun. Not only will your family be fit together, but you will also be creating fun memories that will be remembered forever.
Amanda is a WAHM & the co-owner of Olde Village Depot-an online primitive craft mall. The Olde Village Depot offers affordable and free advertising options to country and primitive crafters. Be sure to visit The Olde Village Press for more articles. | |
