You probably already know that kids are extremely influenced by their surroundings, and that’s why it’s so important to set up a good example and make sure that kids develop healthy habits at an early age.
It’s not always easy and it might require a lot of work but try not to underestimate them because they’ll probably process and pick up on more things than you realize. Kids develop habits by age nine and even though it’s not impossible to break or make a healthy habit afterward, maybe you should consider helping them now. Ready? Let’s do this!
Step #1: The Karate Kid
By the word “karate” we think “self-control” and by “kid” we think “master”! You got the point, right? Your kid will become a master of self-control! But he or she does need your help.
It might seem impossible to imagine a child prioritizing sliced carrot over a delicious sugary treat but it’s a real-life situation. All you need to do is lead by example and teach them why are healthy eating habits so important – but try not to make too formal and be sure to have fun along the way. Play games during the dinner time and make healthy eating habits seem more appealing.
You can do that by making healthy snacks accessible, pre-sliced and ready to enjoy. Some folks put popular cartoon stickers on bananas, some parents read books about healthy habits to their kids and some prefer a deep talk. But they all have one thing in common – they set up a good example.
Step #2: Time to put the pedal to the medal
So they started eating well and everything is going just fine? Great! Now please don’t quit your role-modeling job. It’s not the right time to give up that crown yet!
The scary stuff is next: working out regularly.
Even though you don’t have to run miles and you don’t have to be as ripped as a wild dog, you should probably set up a good example and introduce your kids with the importance of physical activity.
Start slow – choose to take the stairs instead of an elevator, walk to the store instead of driving or make them have a race with the family dog. Keep it fun and simple. They’ll figure out the message and they’ll probably make a positive cognitive association between enjoying connective family time together and working out.
Step #3: How to keep healthy habits your kids made?
It might be hard to gain them but after they develop healthy habits, they won’t be that easy to break. Try to remind your kids of all the benefits these habits brought to your family life and make sure you reward them each time they are persistent. The reward doesn’t have to be anything big; it could be telling a joke, enjoying a game you guys love to play or a family walk.
Do what makes them happy.
Kids learn a lot from you – how to treat others, how to eat, act and communicate; that’s the reason you should start working on the best version of yourself. It will not only make your kids more successful and happier, it will also make you feel amazing.
And you know what they say: “Happy parents – happy kids!”
Let us know if you have any tricks and tips for creating healthy habits. We would love to hear your opinion on this topic!
