The combination of Orlando’s great year-round weather, lack of state income tax, and diversity of activities make it an ideal place for families to live. Despite the benefits of living in one of the top entertainment capitals of the world, kids living in Orlando face the same pressures as kids living elsewhere in the country.
So, how do you teach your children to overcome these pressures and make healthy choices? It’s not as hard as you might think; it just takes some extra planning and setting a great example. METFitness shares some tips to help you get started.
Healthy Food Choices
Making the right food choices is at the core of healthy living. Provide your kids with a variety of healthy food options, such as fruits and vegetables, and encourage them to try new foods. Additionally, limit certain types of foods and drinks, such as sugar and caffeine, that can be bad for the body when consumed in excess.
Plenty of Exercise
Getting plenty of exercise is just as important as eating right. Fortunately, Orlando is home to a wide range of outdoor activity options, such as biking, hiking, and kayaking. Plan time, at least two or three times a week, for the family to participate in some type of activity together. Teaching kids to take care of their bodies when they’re young instills a pattern for them to take into adulthood.
A Good Night’s Sleep
Studies show that kids across the country aren’t getting enough sleep. Depending on their ages, children need from 8 to 12 hours of sleep per night. If your kids are still tired when they wake up or having trouble staying awake at school, it may be time to set some strict nighttime rules.
Avoid Drugs and Alcohol
Your kids are likely to face peer pressure to consume drugs or alcohol at some point. Talking to them about the dangers of drugs and alcohol and how to handle this type of pressure can go a long way toward minimizing the risk of addiction later in life.
Focus on the Future
It’s never too early to start talking to your kids about their future goals. In fact, one of the best things you can do to help your kids achieve their goals is to set a good example. If you’ve put off going back to get your degree because of time constraints, think again. Today, there are numerous online programs that allow you to get a degree from the comfort of home.
For example, a Bachelor of Science in Education degree can help you get a job working with children in a preschool or elementary school setting. No matter where you live in Orlando, you can can complete many different types of online programs while still working and taking care of your family.
Keep Your Kids Active
While planning for the future is crucial, it’s equally important to ensure your children are having fun just being kids. Encouraging them to participate in a variety of activities can ensure they’re enjoying their childhoods. To help get your kids interested in exercising and fitness, sign up for the Youth Fitness program at METFitness.
Teaching kids to make healthy choices early on will give them the knowledge and skills they can carry with them throughout their lives. Demonstrating these healthy choices and talking to your children about why you are making these choices in your life, is a great way to get started.
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