One of the worst ways that we can try and set an example is by not going through with it ourselves. As parents, how are we expected to lead when we can’t fully show what we are leading into? It’s like somebody trying to tell you about scuba diving when they’ve never so much as taken a dip in the ocean. It’s exactly the same when we are trying to teach our children how to be healthy. There is almost no point in trying to show how to live a lifestyle which is beneficial to their well being if we can’t adopt it ourselves.
So what can we do more of to help our children pick it up as part of their routine?
Drink More
A very marginal percent of us are drinking the recommended amount of water every day. We are meant to be in-taking eight ounces eight times a day – that’s not a whole lot when you think about it, but we’re still not achieving it. Are we too busy for it, or have we just adapted our lifestyles to go on without needing as much? Whatever the reason, we need to be drinking more – and so do our children. Not only does it help with metabolism and general health, but it aids concentration and stamina. If you are struggling with remembering to drink and knowing how much, there are things available like the Trago water bottle which send reminders and let you know how you’re doing. If the reminders are sent to you phone, you’ll always be able to know when to drink. The more you drink, the better. If you can’t remember the last time you had a drink … take another drink.
Eat The Right Things
We are living in a fast food generation where it’s easier to go and place an order than go home and cook it yourself. This isn’t the way that we should be doing things, and it’s certainly not a good example to set to your children. Making sure that you are eating a balanced diet full of all of the vitamins that they require is one way for setting them up not just for a great day ahead, but for a long and healthy life, too.
Exercise
Families who exercise together don’t have to be gym nuts who are intent on beating their personal best every time they go. Exercise can come in many forms, and sports is only one of them. If you have a brood of children, team sports are brilliant to release their energy and help to establish their social skills. Getting your children involved in a local sports team themselves may be one way of trying to increase their physical well being.
Be Kind
Children are like parrots – they will repeat everything that you say, but as time goes on you may see that they’re repeating how you’re saying things and the actions that accompany them. If you notice that they are showing a lot of anger in their tone or sadness, this unfortunately could be a reflection of yourself. Be kind to everything around you and show them that it’s okay for them to be kind, too.
