Fathers can help their children have a healthy lifestyle by teaching their children to look after their body through eating well and exercise.
There are many benefits of having a healthy lifestyle. Here are some:
- Children have more energy to meet the demands of their activities.
- It is easier to keep their weight under control. Children are less likely to struggle with obesity.
- It creates good habits and discipline early on that pay off later in life.
- Lower blood pressure.
- Lower risk of diabetes.
- Stronger immune system to fight off sickness and disease.
- Children feel better about themselves and are more confident in their abilities.
- Children handle their emotions more effectively because they feel calmer and use activity to burn off stress.
- Children feel more confident in social situations (friends, adults, school, etc.).
- Concentration and focus in school comes easier.
- Increases physical strength and stamina.
Here are some ideas of how to building a healthy lifestyle for kids:
Be active: Have vigorous activity for your children everyday.
Do it together:Plan activities together, for example, walks, bike rides and swimming.
Be involved:Encourage involvement in community sports. Children meet new people and learn new skills.
Keep balanced:Help your children deal with stress and other emotions well.
Limit “screen time”:Keep television, computer use, and gaming to a minimum.
Watch the snacks: Keep all snacks as healthy and nutritious as possible. Limit
snacking while watching TV.
Be selective:Teach your children to select healthy food. You will not always be around
to do this for them.
Get good habits:Teach your children good exercise habits.
Sleep:Make sure your children get enough sleep.
- babies – 15 hours
- school age – 9 to 12 hours
- teenagers – 8 to 12 hours
Be a healthy role-model:Children learn from your example.
Relax:Have a relaxed, flexible parenting style with your children.
Have fun: Enjoy your time with your children. This is important for all of you.
For more ideas and tips, check out the factmarks at dadcentral.ca.