Diabetes and hypertension—two conditions normally associated with childhood—are now commonplace among children in America. The reason? Childhood obesity rates have quadrupled in the last 25 years; and, obesity is one of the main causes of both type 2 diabetes and hypertension. Bad eating habits and physical inactivity make children prime targets for these health problems. Teaching them about health from an early age can protect them from harmful diseases, improve their quality of life and help them live longer.
Start Early
As the saying goes: “Old habits die hard.” Teaching your children about health issues at a young age is critical. Your child will develop healthy values and behaviors that they will carry with them into their teens and adulthood. Learning about health also protects them from developing minor illnesses and diseases. For instance, when they’re taught proper hygiene early on they’re less susceptible to cold and flu. Also, knowing how to make healthy food choices protects them from obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Model Healthy Behavior
You are the most powerful role model for your child. When parents model healthy behavior for their children, they are more likely to be healthy as well. Yet, in a survey conducted by the American Obesity Association, 27 percent of parents admitted that their children eat less nutritiously than they did when they were children. To get on a healthier track, the association recommends preparing healthy meals for the entire family, eating meals together, buying only low-calorie snacks, and not forcing children to eat if they’re not hungry.
Get Kids Involved
Active learning usually has more impact for children. Instead of just preparing their meals for them, get them to help out. Children who participate in meal planning and preparation are more likely to eat fruits, veggies and grains than snacks or unhealthy foods, according to KidsHealth.org.
Play with Your Kids
Tired of pleading with your children to get off the computer or to quit the video games? The American Obesity Association recommends creating an active family lifestyle. Get the whole family involved in sports or activities that every member of your family enjoys. Also, plan regular action-packed family outings such as hiking or biking trips, or start your own neighborhood sports programs with other families.
Be Honest and Open
As children grow up they have to deal with some topics that many parents feel uncomfortable discussing such as sex and illicit drug use. However, your children need to be informed about these issues so they can make healthy decisions and cope with peer pressure. Create a comfortable atmosphere in your home so your children feel they can turn to you—rather than their friends—for advice. Stay calm, listen and don’t judge.
Use Teachable Moments
Teaching your children about health shouldn’t come down to ill-timed lectures. Take advantage of “teachable moments” that may make your children more receptive to what you have to say. Teachable moments are life events or situations that can lead to conversations and encourage positive changes in behavior. For instance, a celebrity suffering a drug overdose or admitting to an eating disorder may spark a conversation about these health issues. Encourage your children to share their opinions, and try not to preach.
References
- Get America Fit Foundation : Obesity Related Statistics in America
- Patient Education and Counselling: Teachable moments for health behavior change: A concept analysis
- American Obesity Association: Childhood Obesity
- KidsHealth: Healthy Eating
- American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: Talking To Your Kids About Sex
