Fit Kids are Healthy Kids

Childhood obesity is a serious problem. About one in four American children are classified as being overweight. Lack of physical activity is one of the culprits. Current guidelines recommend that kids strive for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity per day. Turn off the TV, the computer, and the video games, and try these tips to motivate "couch potato" kids.

• Be a good role model. Play with your kids in the park, bike around the neighborhood, or take after-dinner strolls.
• If your children are involved in organized sports, coach, serve as a score keeper, transport kids to and from games, and always cheer on your team.
• Help your kids find something they like to do – roller skate, shoot baskets, jump rope, or any physical activity.
• Check out neighborhood fitness, recreation and exercises classes. Go to family swim nights or purchase kid exercise videos.
• Find easy ways to stimulate exercise. Walk, don’t drive; take the stairs; or plan a walking tour of a zoo or museum rather than a movie.