I wanted to clue everyone into a great conversation happening at http://newtalk.org/2008/07/obesity-part-1-whats-needed-to.php about obesity in American society.
The main discussion is happening between a panel of experts and policy makers including our very own Darell Hammond, CEO and Co-Founder of KaBOOM!. Here's a quote from Darell on the topic:
So what's your take? Many commentators pointed at technology (ipods, video games, computers, tv) as the reason why obesity has become so prevalent. Darell makes a point of looking at the diminished number quality playspaces, innovative and fun playgrounds and parks that kids (and adults) want to visit again and again.
What's your stance and what are the steps you take to help encourage a culture of fitness in your family or community?
I wish there was a quick fix to such a complex issue. Too much of our children's lives are filled with ads that want to sell them video games and unhealthy foods, yet we as parents can say no to it, and do, yet it is a battle we shouldn't have to fight. The other issue is how aware we are as a nation that our children are headed down an unhealthy path yet claim the inability to stop it. In Kentucky, specifically Louisville, there are op ed pieces that appear regularly about how important recess is, how unhealthy the children of the state are, yet most citizens respond to how their tax dollars are being spent to repaint a bridge or to complain about how their political party is being represented in the press. I am a frustrated parent who is fortunate to have healthy children who enjoy physical activity and who are engaged with their environment, but see the inertia that plagues our adults. So many see the problem but don't wish to become a part of the solution. Some look incredulous when I state that an hour of activity means extra years in a child's life. Especially when their child isn't obese they think that it is someone else's problem.
Of course, out PTA raised funds to put a playground in at the school. That is important, but doesn't solve the problem when there is no recess at the school-or that the state doesn't think it is necessary. My family participates in every city sponsored Hike and Bike or Family Fitness Fun Run that is offered, but so many don't think that it is valuable. HOw can you ask your children to eat healthy when you drink soda? If parents don't get active their kids won't. Many parents visit a playground with their kids, then sit on the bench while their kids play. What kind of message does that send? Many parents sign their kids up for soccer, basketball, etc, then talk on their cell phones while their kids practice. What does that say? Until parents/adults are will to step up and participate, our children won't.
MJT- You make a great point about how important it is for parent's to be involved. And the importance is that they must be whole-heartedly committed. There is a lot of pressure on parents to find the time to be truely engaged with their children. If parents want to see a change in their children, they must first look at their own lifestyles and realize they are the greatest role model their children will ever have. Children follow and learn best by example.
Also, what do you think about tv commercials and their push on healthy, or unhealthy lifestyles for children? An example would be McDonalds commercials on Cartoon channels.
I agree with what has already been posted here so far, encouraging kids to be active has to start from the parents or people that children look up to. When I was little my parents always stayed active themselves and encouraged my brother and I to stay active by walking together as a family and they also would coach sports we were interested in to make sure they stayed involved. It definitely helped me realize that being fit was important. I recently saw a great article in a local free paper that gave a step by step fun work out that a parent could do with their child or teens so that they could work on getting fit together. I think having a buddy in any workout is great especially if it is going to help parents stay in shape as well.
As to the question about TV commercials etc I think they are part of the problem with how are children eat these days. Kids see fast food commercials every time they turn on tv and so much of that is geared towards catching their attention. Now with certain places offering healthier alternatives they are REALLY gearing towards keeping children coming back time and time again. I suppose it is a step up when they offer apple fries etc but then they dip it in caramel and there goes the nutritonal value and it makes kids want to eat healthy foods in an unhealthy way.