In today’s world where women take on a plethora of daily tasks, it’s important for every mother to be on top of their game especially when it comes to their children’s health.
Although things can get really busy (and crazy!) when you’re juggling family and professional life, moms can still help their children live healthier lifestyles:
1. Be a role model.
Children can tell if you’re not following your own rules. If you’re skipping your own veggies, you can’t expect your kids to adopt a healthy attitude toward food. Show them that you enjoy eating your greens and your children will follow your lead.
2. Cook more; order less.
After a long day at work, the last thing that you probably want to do is head to the kitchen and whip up a meal. It’s more convenient to pick up the phone and order some fast food. However, for your children’s (and wallet’s) sake, it’s best to plan meals for the week which you can serve the whole family. Besides, too much eating of fast foods, which can contain hefty amounts of fats, salts and sugar, can be unhealthy. When you cook your own meals, you can be confident that your child gets the proper nourishment he needs.
3. Involve your children in meal planning.
Children like to help out around the home. Get them involved in meal planning to encourage them to eat more healthy foods. Together with your kid, arrange their food in smiley faces or other fun shapes you and your child can think of. Then, give their masterpieces fun names to make things more interesting. And if you still can’t make them eat their veggies–be creative! Wrap asparagus in bacon or add some carrots to your kids’ banana smoothie.
4. Keep healthy snacks on hand all the time.
Children need not eat chips and candies all the time. There are a lot of available snacks for your kids that are not only delicious but also healthy. For example, you can serve them fresh fruits in season or oatmeal partnered with delicious milk shakes made from LITE milk.
5. Manage TV time.
Watching TV can be a highly entertaining activity. However, it’s recommended that parents manage and supervise their kids’ TV time. According to the American Pediatric Society, TV watching for children should be limited, at most to 1-2 hours a day. That way, they still have time to do their other responsibilities. Being present when they watch TV is also encouraged so you not only get updated with your kids’ interests but also ensure they’re watching age-appropriate shows.
6. Explore the outdoors with your children.
You don’t have to leave the city in order to have quality time with your children. A trip to a local park or playground will give children their much-needed breath of fresh air. Or you can even set a fun picnic in your own garden. If you have the luxury of time, get on a road trip with the kids. If you’re living in the metro, Tagaytay would be your best bet since it’s only a few hours away. Regardless of where you go, the important thing is to give children the chance to explore their surroundings.
7. Play mind games.
Video games are popular with children because they are action-packed. However, some contain violent content which are inappropriate for children. Bring out your crossword puzzles or challenge each other in a game of Sudoku. These games are inexpensive, but they are great mind exercises for children.
8. Get involved in physical activities.
A lot of children these days live sedentary lifestyles. Kids need to go out and play because if they’re only vegging on the couch, they miss out on the fun of childhood. Plus, encouraging active play not only helps keep your child physically fit, but also become a form of fun bonding with your child.
9. Nurture curiosity.
Children are naturally curious. Let your children explore new ideas for learning. Support their hobbies, take on a science experiment, and go out on an educational trip . This will help nurture your children’s mind and help them think critically.
10. Give your children plenty of rest.
Having a good night’s sleep is essential in children’s growth and brain development. A sleep-deprived child is more likely to become sluggish at home and in school. Lack of sleep also lowers children’s resistance to sickness. Establish a healthy sleeping routine for your child. Encourage him to sleep during the day after school to regain energy.
Child wellness should be on top of every mother’s priority list. It’s not just about eating healthy, but it’s also about living a well-balanced life.
Sources:
http://life.gaiam.com/article/10-ways-get-kids-eat-healthier
http://wellnesskids.blogspot.com/
http://health.msn.com/kids-health/slideshow.aspx?cp-documentid=100236203&imageindex=1
http://crazysexylife.com/2011/how-to-get-your-kids-to-eat-healthy-foods/