When raising a family, it’s important to teach and model for children essential values that prioritize health and wellness. By setting a good example and finding teachable moments, parents can help make healthy food and activity choices routine, better ensuring they will lead healthy and balanced lifestyles in the future.
Midwest Express Clinic ambassador and Chicago Bulls forward Zach LaVine agrees: “As an athlete, I’m constantly trying to perfect my craft and focus on staying hydrated, eating lots of fruits and vegetables to make sure my body is in the best shape to do my job. I want to lead by example and pass on healthy lifestyle choices to my child.”
For parents looking for ways to keep their family healthy and happy, here are some tips to make sure you and your children are living active and nutritional lifestyles.
1. Plan meals together
Involving your kids in grocery shopping and meal planning is a great way to teach the value of nutritionally balanced meals. Start the process by educating them on the essential food groups: grains, protein, dairy, fruits and vegetables. Let your kids pick out fruits and veggies that they enjoy and encourage them to research fun meal ideas that include these fruits and vegetables. You can also apply this same practice to their school lunches.
2. Make outdoor activities a weekend staple
Whether it’s a trip to the community pool or a scenic hike in the woods, finding time to spend with the family outdoors is a great way to make lasting memories while getting some much-needed exercise. You can even ask your kids to help pack a healthy picnic lunch to enjoy while you’re exploring the great outdoors.
3. Take a fitness class together
Another great way to ensure your family is staying active is to find a class to take together that encourages exercise and movement. Yoga, aerobics and martial arts are all great options for a family fitness class, as they teach both physical and mental wellness and maintenance. If you are unsure where to find classes, ask your local community center or fitness center for suggestions.
4. Make chores more fun
It’s not uncommon for kids to argue over who has to walk the dog or mow the lawn. So make tasks interesting by incentivizing your kids with some healthy competition. For example, if you have a young, energetic dog, see how fast the child can walk the dog around the neighborhood loop by using a timer. Two children can compete for the best time, or one child can compete for a personal best. When it comes to lawn work, headphones and some tunes can turn a boring task into something more enjoyable.
5. After-school activities
As kids head back to school after an active summer, make sure their fall and winter days aren’t only about desk and couch time. Team activities not only provide exercise, they develop confidence and teamwork skills. Whether your child is involved in school, city or park district sports, be sure to book an appointment with a Midwest Express Clinic location to get a physical examination so you can be sure your child is fit and eligible to participate. With a comprehensive physical from Midwest Express Clinic, you will receive the care you’d expect from a primary care doctor with the speed and convenience of an urgent care.
