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The risks associated with unhealthy eating, lack of exercise and poor habits today affect not only adults but also small children and adolescents. It is important to teach children a healthy lifestyle from an early age, which includes getting enough exercise and consuming healthy foods. In this way you protect them from many lifestyle diseases and build a good foundation for their future.
Remember that children imitate
Children learn by imitation, and therefore it is important to be a role model. When you sit at the table and eat vegetables and healthy food, your child will remember it. However, if you constantly tell them that vegetables are “yuck”, it will be difficult to change their view of food. This leads to children acquiring habits from their parents, so it is important to encourage them to eat a variety of foods and to get them used to fruit and vegetables from an early age.
Don’t force your children!
Forcing children to eat food they don’t want is counterproductive. Instead, it is better to subtly guide them toward healthy eating. For example, you can add an apple to their snack or prepare a healthy breakfast. Children should not be forced to eat everything on their plate. They usually eat about 60% of what you serve them. Allow them to find their own way to healthy eating.
Make it a family effort
If you try to get a child to eat healthily at home but then they go to grandma who supplies them with sweets, it can be a problem. It is important to involve the whole family in healthy eating. This includes limiting unhealthy foods and ingredients. While it’s good to have occasional indulgences in food, a balanced diet is key. Occasional “treats” can help children return to healthier eating.
Healthy physical activity
Healthy physical activity is essential for children. Let them choose a sport they enjoy, whether it’s swimming, yoga, dance or any other type of physical activity. Regular exercise is important for healthy development, especially for bone health and preventing overweight. Set an example for your children and exercise with them. Children will be happy and you will give them a great foundation for life, both physically and mentally.
Teach your children a healthy lifestyle with love and patience. The right habits they form in childhood will help them lead a healthy and happy life.
