Tips for Encouraging Your Kids to Live Well

By: Lacey Conner (http://familywellnesspro.com/)

Being a parent means being wholly responsible for another person. Having to answer the questions they might have about life and imparting wisdom can be extremely daunting at times. But learning how to live well and develop healthy habits from a young age is paramount to a good lifestyle in the long run. Without sufficient guidance, young people may engage in counterproductive behaviors such as gaming, watching TV or eating too much junk food. 

Today, GSNBody shares some tips on how to encourage healthy habits in your kids.

What Are Healthy Habits?

How can you help your child live a healthier life? Here are the most fundamental habits that contribute to a healthy mind and body.

A Healthy Diet

A nutritious diet is a key to feeling good and being able to concentrate on schoolwork. Start the day off right with a healthy breakfast, which will give them the fuel and energy they need. Eat nutrient-filled snacks like nuts and apples instead of unhealthy choices like chips. Luckily, most young people rely on their parents to cook, which makes encouraging a healthy diet much easier.

Remember, you want them to enjoy eating healthy food, so research some delicious recipes, or cobble together healthy combinations to start their day out right. Whole grain waffles with nut butter and a glass of milk, yogurt with fruit, toast with an egg or whole grain cereal with a banana are all excellent breakfast choices. Research some helpful kitchen tools and other gadgets to make cooking easier and more fun. Developing an enjoyment of cooking in your kids will help them eat healthier as they age.

Exercise

Exercise is one of the most basic ways of keeping the body strong. It pumps endorphins throughout the body, making you feel wonderful. Encourage your children to pursue a physical activity that interests them. 

If you reside in a walkable neighborhood, even something as simple as going for a daily stroll is a step in the right direction. Take a look at a Walk Score map of your area to find the best walking spots.

Achievement

A sense of achievement and well-being are inextricably linked. It’s natural to feel good about achieving something you’ve set out to do. Conversely, it’s natural to feel down about failures. Motivating your child to set goals and meet them will give them an overall sense of being capable.

How to Encourage Healthy Habits

So far, it all sounds great: a healthy diet, a solid exercise routine, and achieving goals. But how do you make this a reality?

Reward Good Behaviors

A common question is whether it’s better to punish bad behaviors or reward good behaviors. Reward increases motivation, and while punishment can deter bad behavior, too much punishment is likely not going to help your relationship with them.

When they do well in school, are active physically and mentally, and are achieving their goals, make sure to let them know they’re doing a good job. Remember, rewards are an extremely powerful tool.

Communication Is Key

No matter how young your child is, it’s always good to start the conversation. Many kids start exhibiting unique skills and talents at a young age. Foster these talents and allow them to flourish. Ask your child what they like doing and try to cater to their needs. Also, make your home a warm, welcoming place where your kids can talk to you about anything.

Lead by Example

Children might be reckless, but they’re not blind. If you’ve been actively trying to get them to achieve their goals but sit around watching soap operas, they’ll notice the hypocrisy. Follow through on your own goals and you’ll also be setting an example for your own children.

Supporting Your Child’s Developmental Needs

During the stages of child development, your child’s interests and capabilities are constantly changing. However, the tips listed above can help you support them and teach them skills they’ll use now and in the future.

For delicious recipes and tips for healthy living, visit GSNBody today!