Be a Healthy Role Model For Your Child
We all know the importance of exercise in maintaining a healthy balanced lifestyle but how many of us consider that our attitudes towards exercise and health will directly influence those of our children?
Struggling with our weight and finding it hard to fit in the time to exercise is a problem for much of the adult population. Do we really want to pass on these negative attitudes to our children?
So if you or your child are inactive or have a less than positive attitude towards exercise here are a few tips to help you become a healthier, more active family.
1. GET OFF THE SOFA YOURSELF
You are in the best position to influence your child so set them the right example by being more active yourself. If you play sport then involve your child, if not then become more active as a family such as walking or cycling on a weekend.
2. SPORT IS NOT ALL BALLS
Help your child choose a sport that is right for them. Not every child will like the big sports such football or rugby, there are hundreds of sports out there and probably one that will suit your child.
3. VARIETY IS THE SPICE OF LIFE
Encourage your child to vary the sport they do so they don’t get bored. It is also important to make sure your child is safe when they exercise – helmets should be worn for roller-skating, cycling and skateboarding. If your child walks or cycles to school, or if they play outdoors with their friends, make sure they are aware of road safety, and the importance of staying in a group.
4. MAKE HEALTHY EATING THE ‘NORM’
Again lead by example by make eating a healthy balanced diet normal in your home. Children of parents who are constantly on diets or overeat are much more likely to carry this attitude into their adult lives. So enjoy eating a healthy balanced diet as a family.
5. SMARTER SNACKS
Snacks are a great way to refuel your body. Try to choose snacks from different food groups – a glass of low-fat milk and an apple or celery sticks with peanut butter and raisins, or some dry cereal. These snacks not only satisfy hunger but improve your child’s concentration levels and improve behaviour.
Adopting these few basic steps will ensure that your family become more active, happier and most importantly much healthier.