What Changes Could Child Care Make to Help the Rate of Obesity of Children?

Obesity in preschool-age children has more than doubled in recent decades, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The implications of allowing so many children to become overweight are far-reaching. Generations of overweight children who sustain emotional scars and develop cardiovascular diseases can have a negative effect on the nation as a whole as they grow into the adults upon whom our economy and society depend. Child care providers are able to help prevent obesity in children and its detrimental effects.

Food Education

• Help children to understand why healthful eating is important. As they grow, they will be able to govern their food intake wisely. Educate the children about the nutrients found in foods and how those nutrients will affect their bodies. Teach them how to use the food pyramid to measure well balanced meals and snacks. Regularly introduce new foods to the children to increase the number of foods they are willing to eat.

Mealtime Behavior

• Insisting on table etiquette teaches children that mealtimes are important.

  During mealtimes, encourage appropriate manners and conversation. This will show children that eating is an important activity. Talk to the children about what they're eating and use positive language to reinforce the benefits of eating healthful foods. Encourage children to tell the caregiver when they are full, then allow the child to be excused. Forcing children to eat after they are full causes them to eventually ignore hunger cues, which can lead to habitual overeating.

Exercise

• According to the New York State Department of Health, children require 60 minutes of daily physical activity. These 60 minutes can be broken up into short sessions throughout the day. Think of fun ways to incorporate physical activities into lesson plans, such as practicing a short choreographed dance. Offer toys like hula hoops and jump ropes that encourage the use of multiple muscle groups. Praise the children as they improve their abilities to use their bodies.

Role Modeling

• It is always important to teach by example.

  Children learn a great deal by observing their caregivers, so it is crucial to set a good example. Avoid consuming unhealthful foods or beverages in front of the children, and be an active participant during play time by teaching new games or playing along with the children. Show that you are willing to try new foods and use positive language when educating the children about how foods look, smell and taste.