Are You Modeling Healthy Habits For Your Kids?

Much of the way children behave is dependent on what they see and hear from their family. They tend to "pick up on" good habits demonstrated by their parents, as well as some less desirable behaviors. Stopping to self-evaluate the following three areas will go a long way in helping guide children toward better health.

Are you preparing and eating healthy foods?
Do you plan what you and your family will eat before you go to the store? Having a plan for healthy eating is important. This way you ensure you included the essential fruits and vegetables, protein food, and some grains in your meals. Your shopping will not be centered around processed foods and soft drinks. When you serve healthy, wholesome foods, your children will know this is what is important. It will form a solid foundation for their dietary needs.

Are you getting outside in the sun and exercising? Exercising shouldn't only be for children, nor should it only be done outdoors. It can be any type of physical activity either inside or out. But a little sun definitely lifts the mood and spirit and your body craves the healthful rays. If your children see you sitting on the sofa, they, too, will think this is appropriate for them. The attitude you have toward any physical activity will be reflected back to them.

Do you take time to play and interact with your children? Are you always too busy or too tired? If you're too tired when you get home, perhaps sitting and reading the newspaper to small children, or listening to their day will help you connect. This is time well spent. And do you really listen to them? With your eyes as well as your ears? Children want and need to know they are important to you. By paying attention to what they say, act, and do, you will be transmitting care and concern for them.

Good parenting means meeting many responsibilities. Proper food and sufficient exercise are necessary for all members of the family. What you do or don't do is modeled by your children. Get them on the right track by practicing good habits they will want to emulate. Spending quality time with your children will not go unnoticed by them. Studies show that physical care, love and concern are important for children's proper growth and development. Be generous in your love and attention.

For more food, children, and parenting information, go to http://www.CookingandKids.com and sign up for our FREE giveaway- 10 Food Activities using the five senses. This is a fun way to interact with kids and help expand their problem-solving skills.

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