A healthy lifestyle for children is set by a healthy adult lifestyle example. Children learn by what they see, what they do and what they hear. If children see adults eating healthy and incorporating physical activity into their daily lives, children will choose these as well. If children participate in activity, it will not seem like exercise, but more like fun. If they hear adults complimenting all body sizes, children may feel good about health regardless of their size.
Nutrition
Proper nutrition is part of the foundation for children's healthy lifestyle. You can help your children eat healthy by having a variety of foods available. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's My Pyramid tool shows the different food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, milk, meat and beans and oils. Oils are to be limited, but some are needed for good health such as those found in nuts. You can be a good example for your children by choosing foods from these groups including snacks such as apples, oranges or carrots and by choosing proper portion sizes. Please speak with your doctor regarding proper portion sizes for your child.
Fitness
Physical activity is another important factor in healthy children. My Pyramid recommends 60 minutes of daily activity for children. This activity can include walking, dancing, bike riding, roller blading and playing sports. If you participate with your children, they are more likely to be consistent with a fitness program and will think of it as fun, not as work. If your child enjoys video games, he may enjoy a fitness based or movement oriented game to increase his physical activity.
Vitamin D
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends vitamin D for strong bone health. Your child can get vitamin D from the sun and you can use this time to include 15 minutes of outdoor activity. Vitamin D is found in fish, fortified milk and in supplements. Speak with your doctor about the proper amount for your child.
Role Model
You can be a healthy role model for your child by treating your body with respect. This includes safety concerns such as wearing a seatbelt or bicycle helmet. You also show respect for your body by viewing it as beautiful and healthy. You can teach children to make good choices by limiting sodium intake and increasing your consumption of water.
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