Here's eight things for parents, nannies, educators, babysitters, siblings-anyone who has an influence in a child's life.
Don't reward children with food. Candy and snacks as a reward encourage bad habits. Find other ways to celebrate good behavior.
Practice what you preach. If you're practicing healthy habits, it's a lot easier to convince children to do the same. Incorporate healthy activities into the time you spend with children. Take walks, ride bikes, go swimming, garden or just play hide-and-seek outside. Everyone will benefit from the exercise and the time together.
Encourage physical activities that children really enjoy. Remember that each child is unique and may have to experiment with many activities until he or she finds one that is enjoyable.
Limit TV, video game and computer time.
Help children develop a positive self image. Focus on the positives instead of the negatives. Everyone likes to be praised for a job well done.
Be an advocate for healthier children. Insist on good food choices at school cafeterias and vending machines. Encourage school principals to offer more physical fitness opportunities.
Encourage obese children to participate in the Alliance for a Healthier Generation program