With childhood obesity at all time highs and a wide range of cultural norms that do anything but encourage health--in either us or our children--most parents are trying to figure out ways to swim against modern currents and provide something a little better for their children. The thing is, however, that the components that create a healthy lifestyle for young people are no different than they were forty years ago. We all know what kids need, but we make it complicated and look for a faster, easier way to get it.
1. 5 Fruits and VeggiesThese more expensive options can run all the way up to $20,000 and more. In most cases, these are the hardwood timber playgrounds that you will see at child care facilities, parks and schools. That still doesn't mean you can't find exactly what you are looking for and there are many features, configurations and designs you can incorporate to fit your budget and your child's dreams.Let's look at 5 major factors of the modern world that are leading to this increase in child obesity.3. ParanoiaAs mentioned before, none of this is rocket science. We all know exactly what our children need, just as we know what we ourselves need for better health. But just like that knowledge still doesn't quite get us in the gym every morning, we fail to just make it happen for them. That doesn't mean, of course, that we can't start making it happen now.In the cities, violence in the media can often discourage families from allowing their children to go out on their own--so doing things like hiking around town or riding bicycles is completely off limits. While there are some dangers out there (largely depending on the area you live in), many parents are taking it too far. Social problems are not as bad as the news programs would lead us to believe. It's just that we constantly get hammered with a barrage of bad stories and therefore assume the world is a dangerous place.No doubt your parents were saying it to you all along, and it still stands that you should be saying it your own children. "Eat your veggies!" For most kids, this will mean creative on-plate management designed to look like they've eaten more than they actually have, and sure, there is bound to be some headaches along the way. But it's all worth it.Need it any more simple that that? Exercise is as simple as children running around a yard. Good diet is as simple as real foods (not processed) and avoiding overeating. That's it--and that's why even you can give your children the healthy habits they need.The cheaper playsets typically don't hold up very well against the elements and years of rowdy kids swinging around and being kids, which doesn't really make a whole lot of sense for a structure designed for this specific purpose. And while you might make the mistake of assuming metal would be a good option for strength and durability, metal actually corrodes and weakens over time.Playsets come in a variety of prices, materials and offer different features. Finding those that offer the most benefit for parents and children isn't difficult, you just have to know your options. Don't be tempted by the small, generic sets just because they are cheaper�your child will quickly grow bored with a set that doesn't suit their needs, and something that isn't strong enough to stand the test of time can become a safety hazard in your yard.Force your kids to be more creative about their time, and hopefully by limiting the choices of what there is to do indoors, you'll encourage a little of the next point.Consider the attractiveness of the sturdier options in swing sets, such as those built from hardwood timbers.4. Get Outside!1. High-tech Entertainment
As mentioned before, none of this is rocket science. We all know exactly what our children need, just as we know what we ourselves need for better health. But just like that knowledge still doesn't quite get us in the gym every morning, we fail to just make it happen for them. That doesn't mean, of course, that we can't start making it happen now.
Author: James Druman
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