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Child obesity is believed to be a growing epidemic in this country. Children overall, are less active and spend more time watching TV and playing video games then they ever have before. An estimated 80% of overweight children will grow up to be overweight adults. They will struggle with weight their entire lives. They will be more susceptible to diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and high cholesterol. Obesity can also lead to joint and back problems. Obese people tend to have shorter life spans and a lower quality of life as they get older.

An essential way to keep your children from being overweight is to keep them active. The more time they spend up and moving the better off they will be. Get your kids involved in sports and other outdoor activities. These can include gardening, skating, camping, canoeing, swimming, and the list could go on forever. If your child plays an organized sport, go to their events and practices. Cheer for them and offer them constant support and encouragement. Never make your children feel bad if they play poorly because that will discourage them from paying future sports. Encourage your children to use the stairs instead of elevators, walk or ride their bike places instead of getting a ride. Lead your children by example by walking with them.

Ask your children to help out around the house doing chores. A lot of household chores are very physical and will keep them moving. For example, they can: rake leaves, mow the lawn, sweep, vacuum, take the dog for a walk, or shovel snow. There are lot of things kids can do to help out that are perfectly safe with adult supervision.

Exercise with your kids. You can run together, weight train, or do aerobic exercise. Whatever you do, make sure you warm-up and cool-down with your child, and drink plenty of water. Setting a good example of a healthy active lifestyle is one of the best things you can do to teach your children how to be healthy and happy.