Photo by: Sean Dreilinger on Flickr.com
If you’re a parent or a grandparent, you probably already know that the things you teach those little kids of yours will last a lifetime. The question is – are you teaching them habits that will benefit them for a LONG lifetime? Are you teaching your children quality habits to help them live long and help them live well? Will yours grow up to be fit, healthy, confident adults who feel great enough about themselves to enjoy their family, profession and opportunities for fun?
We can start by touching on a few simple topics. Do you provide dessert every day? Seems harmless, cause they’re so cute and sweet and gee whiz, even thin right now! But a habit of dessert every day today will turn in to a habit of dessert every day in twenty years; that usually doesn’t turn out so good. Not only does it, of course, increase their chances of struggling with their weight … but it also increases their chances of incurring a variety of awful ailments and diseases, even premature death.
As your friendly online fitness trainer, I’d like you to take on the philosophy of “high standards” when it comes to the foods and drinks you put in their little mouths. Choose items that are legitimately nutritious, and usually low in fats, calories and sodium. Avoid lots of sugar, hydrogenated oils and processed foods as well. You know darn well those items are B.A.D. Choosing foods that are baked instead of fried is any easy start. Combine that with regular exercise and you increase their chances for success tenfold.
Avoid rewarding your child with junk food. Instead – reward them with actual love, time spent together and activities. Cookies are not love. Enhancing their life with yours is how you show love. I show my children love by reading, wrestling, hiking, painting nails and playing ball with them. A cupcake could never compare.
Remember, you are actually molding these little people. You are in charge and have not only the opportunity, but the responsibility to teach them habitual behaviors that will allow them the luxury of a long, healthy life. Take pride in saying “no” with regularity to foods, drinks and activities which will do them harm. Teach them how to say “yes” to the great choices which will nourish strong, healthy, energetic bodies and minds. What better gift could you give?
Check out this short video “AHN Fit Kicks with Fitz: Raising Fit Kids” to learn more!
