We went out to eat last night, and my daughter pointed out how proud she was of her choices. She is sharing the information and has retained it. She values it and is using it. That is a huge step.

You learned your eating and exercise habits from your parents. Now, what would you like to teach your children?

There are a number of things you can do to get your family up off the couch and on their way to a healthier life. Just take a look, and listen to the real stories of kids who’ve done it. Either that, or face the cold, hard facts of living a lifestyle that’s not as healthy as you think.

To help fill you up, drink a glass of water before you eat.
Serve meals on smaller plates as opposed to large dinner plates.
Limit the number of high-calorie foods in the home.

If you do have high-calorie foods in the kitchen, put them where they’re hard to get to or difficult to see (if they’re on the counter, they’ll get eaten often).
Serve foods from the kitchen, so you and your child have to get up to get a second helping.
Buy fruits and vegetables that are in season—they’re usually less expensive.

Include your child in the grocery shopping process—comparing labels and finding healthy choices.
Increase your awareness of your body’s nutritional needs.
Become a food label expert and use them for your benefit.
Develop a taste for foods you never thought you’d like.

Top