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F.A.M.E. (Fun Activity Motivates Everyone)
Today, about one of three American kids and teens are overweight or obese, nearly triple the rate in 1963. Among children today, obesity is causing a broad range of health problems that previously weren't seen until adulthood. These include high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and elevated blood cholesterol levels. There are also psychological effects. Obese children are more prone to low self-esteem, negative body image and depression.
However, there's good news: Obesity can be stopped. And it doesn't take high-tech treatments or cutting-edge medications. The solution begins and ends with the daily decisions we make.
As parents and loved ones, we can help shape our children and grandchildren's attitudes and behaviors toward physical activity, and knowing these guidelines is a great place to start. Throughout their lives, encourage young people to be physically active for one hour or more each day, with activities ranging from informal, active play to organized sports. Here are some ways you can do this:
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Set a positive example by leading an active lifestyle yourself.
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Make physical activity part of your family's daily routine by taking family walks or playing active games together.
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Give your children equipment that encourages physical activity.
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Take young people to places where they can be active, such as public parks, community baseball fields or basketball courts.
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Be positive about the physical activities in which your child participates and encourage them to be interested in new activities.
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Make physical activity fun. Fun activities can be anything your child enjoys, either structured or non-structured. Activities can range from team sports or individual sports to recreational activities such as walking, running, skating, bicycling, swimming, playground activities or free-time play.
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Instead of watching television after dinner, encourage your child to find fun activities to do on their own or with friends and family, such as walking, playing chase or riding bikes.
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Be safe! Always provide protective equipment such as helmets, wrist pads or knee pads and ensure that activity is age-appropriate.
Many local organizations are a great resource to assist you and your family with the above information. One such resource is being planned for Thursday, June 10 from 4 to 7 PM at the Hardin County Fairgrounds. The event's name is F.A.M.E. (Fun Activity Motivates Everyone) and will focus on the total health of the child. The event is free and open to the public.
Hardin Memorial has joined forces with the following groups and their past events to provide one large event for you and your family: Kenton city Schools (Walk for Your Health); Educational Service Center, Help Me Grow, Simon Kenton Schools, OSU Extension (Family Fun Night); and the Hardin County YMCA (Healthy Kids Day). On behalf of these organizations we invite you and your families to attend this free event. Many interactive activities and educational booths will be provided to promote healthy lifestyles and to educate children on the importance of physical activity and healthy choices.
Mark your calendar for this fun filled event on Thursday, June 10 from 4 to 7 PM. If you have any questions or have an organization that would like to be involved contact the HMH Public Relations Department at 419-675-8137.
Resources:
American Heart Association Children's Health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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