Childhood obesity is a serious problem in America. Children are heavier then their parents at the same age and headed toward serious medical issues such as diabetes. It is time to take this issue seriously. If your child is not overweight you still need to stay vigilant. This is not a matter of looking fat or not looking a Barbie doll. This is a matter of health and nutrition. Children are bombarded with fast food, larger portion sizes and sugary drinks. We need to teach children proper portion control and food choices to save their health in the long term. One way to help children learn more about food is to allow them access to the kitchen. Make cooking meals a family effort. You do not need to make every meal together but taking out one night a week is a good start.
Making meals with your children will give you the chance to spend valuable time with them. Children need to feel loved and secure no matter their weight. In fact, a child who feels loved may not turn to food for emotional pleasure in times of stress. Spending time with your child is the best way to guide them into a healthy world view. Cooking together will also give you a chance to talk about nutrition. Even young children can learn how good an apple is over a cookie or broccoli over a piece of pie. Allow your child to help prepare the meals since children are more likely to eat what they make. They are also more likely to eat what their parents eat which means health starts at home. You may find that the family as a whole is benefitting from focusing on nutrition and health. Eating purposefully will allow you to make better choices that will have impact for the rest of your child’s life.