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What Can You Do As Parents?

Parents play a big role in shaping children's eating habits. When parents eat a variety of foods that are low in fat and sugar and high in fiber, children learn to like these foods as well.   It may take 10 or more tries before a child accepts a new food, so don't give up if your child does not like a new food right away.

Parents have an effect on children's physical activity habits as well.   You can set good examples by going for a walk of bike ride or jumping rope with your children instead of watching television.   With many parents working outside the home, child care providers also shape children's eating and activity habits.   Make sure your child care provider offers well balance meals and snacks as well as plenty of active play time.

If your child is in school, find out more about the school's breakfast and lunch programs and ask to have input into the menu choices, or help pack a lunch that includes a variety of foods.   Get involved in the parent-teacher association (PTA) to support physical education (PE) and after school sports.

Your child's friends and the media can also affect his or her eating and activity choices.   Children may go to fast food places or play video games with their friends instead I playing tag, basketball, or other active games.   TV commercials try to persuade kids to choose high-fat snacks and high-sugar drinks and cereals.   When parents help their children are aware of peer and media pressures, youngsters are more likely to make healthy choices outside the home. (A exert from the WIN- Weight-control Information Network)

• Be supportive

Tell your child he or she is loved, is special, and is important. Accept your child at any weight.   Children will be more likely to accept and feel good about themselves when their parents accept them.   Listen to your child's concern about their weight.   They need support, understanding and encouragement from their parents.

• Encourage healthy eating habits
• Buy and serve more fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen or canned) Let your child choose them at the store.   Buy fewer soft drinks and high fruit/high caloric snack foods like chips, cookies, and candy.   Eat breakfast everyday. Eat less fast food. When you visit a fast food restaurant, try a healthful option if available.
• Encourage daily physical exercise. Set good examples, encourage your child to join a sports team or class.   Be sensitive to your child's needs and find a physical activity that is fun for them and not embarrassing.
• Discourage inactive pastimes.   Set the limits on the amount of time your family spends on TV, and videos.

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