Kids and Bad Habits: How to Change Their Health
By Genevieve Cunningham
Sometimes it seems like kids are nothing but bad habits. Interrupting, smacking, yelling. For the most part, these are habits that kids break as they get older. They learn, they change, and all is well. No harm, no foul. But sometimes bad habits aren't so simple. Sometimes bad habits are more than just irritating; they're harmful to our health. And as parents, it's our job to help our kids turn these habits around. If you're interested in keeping your kids as healthy as possible, take a look at these bad habits that need to change as soon as possible.
The Habit: Video Games
Kids love video games. As soon as kids have the opportunity to play, they'll be hooked. While a little bit of gaming probably won't hurt too much, kids can become quickly addicted to the screen and the action and the entertainment. If this is a habit for your kid, they'll probably begin to show signs of irritability, lack of movement, and a decrease in overall health. If your kids are addicted to video games, you have to be the bad guy. Set a limit and stick with it. They'll cry and whine and complain, but stick with it if you want your kids to have good health.
The Habit: Phone Use
As kids get older and have access to phones, they quickly become engrossed in the online world. It doesn't take long before phone use is a really bad habit. Kids won't take their eyes away from the screen -- much like many adults. If this is a bad habit for your kids, you need to take action now. Set time limits for phone use. If your kids don't have a phone yet, delay giving them one for as long as possible. And of course, model good behavior. Put your own phone down to set a good example, and your kids are more likely to follow your lead.
The Habit: Snacking
Not all snacking is bad. Sometimes healthy snacks can keep our energy levels up and our bellies full. But kids tend to have poor snacking habits. They reach for chips or sweets or soda. If this is your kids, you can remedy the problem by only buying healthy snacks. They'll either stop snacking, or they'll get used to healthy food. Either way, it's a win-win for the parents and your child's health.
Kids can have bad habits, just like adults. But since they're just kids, they'll need help getting them under control and improving their own habits and health. Help your kids break these bad habits, set limits where needed, and set your kids up for a lifetime of better health.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Santa Monica, Calif.