When we think about our children and the responsibilities that we have as parents we often focus on how they are doing spiritually, socially and academically. We want our children to be healthy, but often do not stop to think about the habits that we are teaching our children when they are young. The Family: A Proclamation to the World states:
“Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children. ‘Children are an heritage of the Lord’ (Psalms 127:3). Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, to teach them to love and serve one another, to observe the commandments of God and to be law-abiding citizens wherever they live. Husbands and wives—mothers and fathers—will be held accountable before God for the discharge of these obligations.”
It is important to see to the physical needs of our children. This includes teaching them to live a healthy lifestyle. When we think of teaching our children about things like the Word of Wisdom, we usually focus on the do nots. It is important to remember to teach our children the proper way to care for our bodies. This includes the way that we eat and how active we are.
Most people can improve in each of these areas. If you are having a hard time giving up sweets think about the long-term effects that you are having on your children. I am not suggesting that you put your children on a diet by any means. It is just important that you give them healthy snack choices on a regular basis. Fruits and vegetables are great snacks. If your children grow up eating these things, this will likely follow them into adulthood.
If you live a sedentary lifestyle, your children will as well. Take the time to plan family outings where you hike or play sports. You can also take daily walks as a family. If you build these into your family routine, your children will also carry these forward into adulthood. They will be healthier for the extra effort your expend now.
You are your child’s best teacher and they will follow your example. It is important that you live the lifestyle that you want your child to live. The whole family will benefit from a healthy active lifestyle.
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