This post was sponsored by Boys & Girls Clubs of America as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.
Even though I haven’t been in the parenting game that long, I have seen how raising healthy kids can also result in raising happy children. I worked as a Children’s Recreation Coordinator for over five years and within that time I interacted with several different types of families. Some that were very active in the community, others who were dipping their family’s toes into the public scene and others who sadly fell out the routine of healthy habits.
It can be easy and tempting to fall out of healthy living routine. Life can be stressful and challenging – especially when you are in the throws of raising children. Most likely, If you ask any parent what their wish is for their kids they will say, “I want them to grow up to be happy!”
In a world filled with such sadness and pressure, “Being Happy!” is harder than it seems – even for adults.
How can we as parents raise happy kids?
I think it starts with raising healthy children (both mentally and physically). The two go hand-in-hand. I know when I feel healthy my chances of being happy are greatly improved.
Ways to Raise Happy and Healthy Kids
Start healthy habits
Don’t beat yourself up if you have been living unhealthy. The important thing is to simply start making healthy choices. Baby steps!
Know that you will have days where you may fail and that is okay.
We decided to put our daughter into dance early on so she could start an active activity at a early age. Also, she has physical activity every day at school during her P.E. times.
As a family we try our hardest to provide healthy meals that are balanced. It’s been challenging since she is a picky eater, but something that we try to do. I won’t lie – sometimes she does eat “junk”, but for the most part it’s healthy.
Let them Play
I think it’s important to let kids simply play. Through play, kids use their imagination and broaden their creativity.
There are so many distractions such as television and technology that can dull our children’s minds. Moderation is key.
Be a Good Role Model
Kids look up to the parents. Plain and simple. Be good role models for your children by actively participating in their lives. Go on walks as a family, play together, and find new hobbies.
Give back to the Community
Get involved with your local community and find charities that bring change to your area. For example, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s (BGCA) Triple Play Initiative is a game plan for the mind, body and soul. This program serves young people at Boys & Girls Clubs, giving them the tools and awareness to put them on a a great path to future success. Sponsored by the Amerigroup Foundation and Coca-Cola, this program encourages families to recommit to improving their healthy habits. “I FEEL BETTER WHEN” is the key mantra that strives to demonstrate how small, daily behavioral changes can have a long-term, lasting impact.
Download the Triple Play Game Plan Here
Remember, if you feel lost and confused on how to get your family started on healthy habits there are plenty of resources to help get you on the right track. The important thing is that you start to make a positive difference in your child’s physical, mental and social well-being.
What are you doing today to raise happy and healthy kids?
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