PREV

ENTING CHILD

HOOD

OBESITY – B

Y JUNE SAXTO

N

W H AT PA R E N T S C

A N DO

GIVE THEM A GOOD START

1. Breastfeed

2. Introduce them to a wide variety of foods

(Beauchamp & Mennella, 2009) & (Birch & Ventura, 2009)

LIMIT FAST FOOD

When it is allowed as a special treat:1. Child sized portions2. Healthy sides3. Low or non-fat milk (no sodas!)4. Skip the mayo5. Choose a whole wheat bun if available6. Grilled chicken instead of a burger is a better choice.

(AHA, 2011)

USE GROCERY SHOPPING & FOOD ADVERTISING AS A TEACHING TOOL

1. Read food labels together

2. Involve them in picking healthy food

3. Discuss the advertising with them and help them distinguish between healthy and unhealthy

food.

(AHA, 2011)

HAVE FAMILY MEAL TIMES & COOK TOGETHER

1. Kids who eat with their parents are more likely to eat healthy.

2. Involving kids in the cooking process helps them develop a healthy relationship with food.

(Hammons & Fiese, 2010) & (What is Yum-o, n.d.)

TAKE CONTROL OF WHAT YOUR CHILD EATS AT SCHOOL

1. Unite with other parents to let the school district know that you are concerned about school lunches.

2. Encourage them to teach healthy eating in the classroom.

(Jalonick, 2011).

USE THE USDA’S NEW MY PLATE

Make ½ the plate fruits & vegetables

¼ the plate whole grains¼ the plate lean protein

(USDA, 2011)

MAKE SURE THAT THEY GET EXERCISE DAILY.

1. Limit media time.

2. Encourage them to play outdoors.

3. Get them involved in sports.

. (Birch et al., 2009)