3 Kid-Friendly Habits to Start With Your Family Now
By Genevieve Cunningham
Starting healthy habits in your home can be a tough endeavor. We all get used to our normal routines. When we try to change, we tend to be a bit resistant. And if you have kids, it can seem like an even bigger challenge. How are we supposed to fit in exercise or choose healthy foods or engage in healthier living when we’re being followed by a fussing toddler or grumbling teenager? Luckily, it’s never too late to change your life or the lives of those in your family. To get your family moving toward better health and wellness, take a look at these three kid-friendly habits to begin with your loved ones today.
Evening Walks
Evening walks are a nice and simple way to increase the amount of activity that your family gets. Why the evening? If your family is busy -- as so many families are nowadays -- then the evening might be the only time when you’re all together. And if you walk after dinner, it can help burn daytime calories and stabilize blood sugar. One of the best things about walking is that it can be done at any age. So whether your family consists of little ones, grandparents, or anyone in between, everyone can participate.
Meditation
You may not think of meditation as a family exercise, but it’s never too early to teach this healthy habit. Set aside some time when everyone in your family sits and contemplates quietly. You can do this all in the same room, in pairs, or individually in your own spaces. Why teach kids this method? Meditation helps calm the nerves, teaches deep breathing, and is an excellent coping technique that you can use for a lifetime.
Cooking Dinner
If you don’t teach your children to cook, then they won’t. And if they don’t learn how to cook, they’ll grow up eating more fast food and convenience foods -- which are generally riddled with calories and fat. Make cooking a family affair. Let everyone in on the planning, the budgeting, the shopping, and the preparation. This is an excellent way to teach kids a lifelong skill as well as a healthy habit to take with them into the future.
Improving your health and your life -- especially when your family is involved -- is always a good idea. But it can seem intimidating if you don’t know where to begin. Use these tips to help you get started, and your entire family will be enjoying better health before you know it.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Santa Ana, Calif.