Family Fitness Do's and Don'ts

Do . . .

. . . Be a good role model
. . . Partner with your child
. . . Stay positive and encourage your child
. . . Promote activities in every way you can.
. . . Use common sense when it comes to safety and take normal precautions (wear a helmet to ride a bike).
. . . Give your child direct messages that you accept and value him.
. . . Choose smaller portions when the family eats out. Many fast food restaurants now offer a healthier alternative       for side orders, such as applesauce instead of french fries.
. . . Find food your child likes. Let him be part of planning meals.
. . . Encourage adventure. Treating new food as exciting and fun can make staying healthy a habit rather than a        chore.
. . . Talk with your child about why healthy eating is important.

Don't . . .

. . . Nag
. . . Keep junk food around the house.
. . . Frequently stop for fast food.
. . . Eliminate all "treats" or favorite snack foods.
. . .Let a bleeding disorder become an excuse for       staying inactive.
. . .Embarrass your child if he struggles with main-       taining a healthy weight.