Parents,

Would you say your child's environment is conducive to a healthy lifestyle?

It seems weird to think about. If your child is older than one year you might want to read this. It is better to be aware and prepared.

As you have probably observed at one point or another, our environment in the U.S. is not conducive to a healthy lifestyle. We have entertainment, restaurants, and more that encourage us to sit more and eat more than we should.

We need to be prepared in how to keep those pleasures in moderation to maintain a healthy body.

This concept is also important for our children.

Cultural Forces

Keeping everything in moderation is hard for kids as well.

Here are some examples of how our culture makes it hard for kids to stay healthy:

• End caps in grocery store stocked with junk food—at perfect eye level for little ones.

• Banks, dentist, salons, and other businesses that are always ready to hand out candy.

• Restaurant and school menus with limited fruit and veggie options, not to mention so many options that are breaded or fried.

• Special treats. We will give a little grace for this one, but honestly, there are too many occasions. Tons of milestones, learning activities, parties, and even bribes involve less-than-healthy snacks (e.g. ocean sand pudding cups when learning about the ocean; pizza party for 100th day of school; classmates birthdays; etc.).

• TV, tablets and video games calling at our children to sit and sit some more.

Creating a Healthier Environment

Now, some of you may be more aware while others have been aware and are frustrated in what to do about it.

Here are some ways to balance the scales:

1. Eat from home most of the time (pack lunches and dinners if needed)

2. Teach your children what "sometimes" foods are and as a family keep them at a lower frequency

3. Make sure your child isn't hungry when grocery shopping

4. Let your children pick out something at the grocery store that is on your list (Which fruit to buy this week?)

5. Teach the concept "Save for later." When your child gets candy or treats somewhere they can save them in a designated spot in the kitchen

6. Put limits on screen time

7. Move with your children; take family walks, find active family hobbies

8. When dining out, share entrées instead of ordering from kids menu

9. Use non-food rewards such as stickers, new toy or outing

10. Use snacks for hunger instead of comfort, bribes or distraction.

11. Don't comfort children with screen time. Teach alternative comfort measures.

12. Practice mindful eating habits; eat at a table together, avoid screens while eating.

As you can see, several of those tips are practices parents need as well. It’s fun to see how family can be a source of accountability for healthy living.

I know it can be discouraging to see factors working against your children. But small steps can add up to make a big difference!

Questions?

As always, if you could use help navigating these considerations and others for your child’s nutrition, feel free to CONTACT ME.

I’d love to help you and your family.