Childhood obesity is a worrying trend in the US. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), 20.6% of adolescents between the ages of 11 and 19 live with obesity. This can lead to various health problems and is a cause of concern for all parents. However, there are many things that you can do as a parent to foster healthy behaviors among teens.
Check out practical ideas to help your teens stay fit and healthy:
1. Prepare meals at home.
Preparing meals at home encourages healthy eating. Involve your kids in picking their preferred foods from the local store and have them help in the kitchen. However, this is only possible if you have a spacious kitchen. If you lack adequate cooking space and need to buy a new home, consult Movoto brokerage agency. They will connect you to a professional real estate agent who will help you locate the best property for your requirements.
Moreover, teach your kids the health gains of different food types. Homemade meals are healthier and allow you to incorporate all the nutrients that you love. What's the ideal diet for your teens? A well-balanced diet comprises proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, fats, and oils.
Teens can quickly get bored, surprise them with different varieties and tastes each day. Employ some tricks to have them like food. For instance, cook vegetables in different colors or blend fruits and vegetables into tasty smoothies and shakes.
2. Playing outdoors
Most teens like it indoors. You'll find them glued on the screen playing online games or watching movies. Although you can't force them to play outside, a little encouragement goes a long way. Put those devices away and take them out for a walk. Treat them to fun outdoor games like baseball, cricket, and any other sport that they may like.
Spending time outdoors allows you to enjoy the fresh air outside and bond more. It helps relieve anxiety and depression for both you and your kids. What's more? Sports are a great way of flexing muscles and will help your teens to lose any excess weight.
3. Walks and jogs
Train you, teens, to appreciate the simple things in life. Have them partake in your fitness efforts and train them on the benefits. For instance, go with them for a morning jog or walk them to school. If they aren't comfortable walking with you, organize a group of friends and have them join.
4. Limit screen time
Kids can easily access various technological devices, thanks to technology. However, these devices can hinder your child from participating in other essential activities. Encourage your teens to play outdoors and educate them on the risks of too much screen time. If you spend most of the time watching television, limit this and train them by example.
Some of the things that you can try out to limit excessive screen time among teens are;
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Keep the gadgets away
Limit your kids from accessing their tablets and phones when going to bed, or when they are supposed to be playing outdoors. This way, you'll draw their attention to other activities.
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Hobbies
Teens love things like music, cooking, art, painting, and many more. Encourage your child to participate in what they love doing, and if possible, enroll them for classes over the holidays. Engaging in creative activities will help your teen develop creative abilities that will benefit them in the future.
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Outdoor sports
Spots help kids to stay fit and engaged. Enroll them for some outdoor activities in your neighborhood. These will help them stay healthy and create an opportunity for socializing with others.
5. A home gym is a great idea!
Due to busy schedules, many people lack time to go to the gym. Acquire different exercise types of equipment to encourage your teens to exercise more. These will also come in handy during winter when kids can't play outside. Some of the things you can purchase are skipping ropes, adjustable dumbbells, punching bags, treadmills, Pull up bar, air bikes, and weights.
6. Establish a sleep routine
Lack of sleep can cause various health complications. Sleep deprivation among teens can result in poor grades, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, and drowsy driving. Most teens love watching television, chatting on social media, or playing games online. If left unsupervised, they can stay up late at night, and this shouldn't be encouraged. Establish a sleep schedule and start when your kids are young.
7. Be a role model
Kids learn by example, and your teens are no exception. Practice what you teach your kids, and this helps them cultivate healthy habits like eating at home, sleeping early, limiting screen time, and exercising.
Final thoughts
Start teaching your kids healthy habits when young. This way, they will likely live healthier lifestyles when older. Prepare your meals at home, and encourage your family to eat at home. Moreover, plan outdoor activities for your tees; these allow you to bond more and keep fit. Remember, teens can be stubborn; don't push them into doing what they don't like.
