It’s not always easy to get your family on board with healthy eating and a more active lifestyle. We get it! That’s why tips like these, that help families make small healthier changes that can gradually add up to big results, can prove invaluable. See what top three tips Michelle of Buddha Bowls and Burpees recommends to families ready to get on the road to health without risking a mutiny.
People often ask me for my top 3 ideas on how to get their kids started on a road to health without implementing any massive changes that will make the whole family rebel. Here are some easy tips to get you started, whether your kids are toddlers or teens!
- Instead of eliminating junk food from your family’s diet, begin by adding in nutritious foods. By incorporating healthy, antioxidant rich foods, everyone will begin to feel better! Celebrate small successes, like when a child didn’t catch whatever’s going around school or a long stretch between doctor visits. Having children associate healthy eating with less illness and fewer doctor visits will definitely motivate them to keep going. Plus all the healthy food being added in will hopefully crowd out some of the junk food.
- Use sleep as a wellness tool. The proper amount of sleep will help kids stay alert and focused in school. It will help their grades and overall functioning. Teaching kids the importance of sleep is a good first step towards health without even needing to change any of their food! For younger kids, a special sleep toy or sleep book may prove helpful.
- Test out simple swaps as a family. Today, the market for healthy snacks is booming. There is no better time to bring your kids to a local health food store and wander around and pick up and taste new snacks to replace any overly processed sugary ones. Bringing kids along and making a fun outing of it may help with the perception of healthy eating being fun and positive.
Don’t forget to make health a priority away from home too! Restaurants nationwide are serving more nutritious choices that families and dietitians are happy to order. Healthy Dining menu choices make the best choice the easy choice!