The Role of Parents in Preventing Childhood Obesity Obesity among children has emerged as an alarming epidemic in the past few decades. Children who are obese have far greater risks for obesity in adulthood and hence fall prey to a number of health risks and issues. Studies have shown that social, economic and environmental factors play a significant role in the weight status of a child. One of these factors is parenting styles which have a direct influence on children and their development. Childhood obesity statistics reveal that the same is more common in economically disadvantaged countries. In addition obesity among children has increased fourfold in the past three decades. Children perform a majority of their physical activities under the supervision of their parents. The same holds true for nutrition, which is usually overseen by parents. This suggests that the role of parents may be viewed as an immense opportunity for controlling childhood obesity and for developing strategies which prevent obesity. Studies reveal that parents can make use of a number of techniques in order to convince their children for adopting a healthy lifestyle. Firstly, for children who refuse a certain nutritious food, we recommend giving it more than one try. Young children are prone to resist new experiences. Another strategy for children might be to encourage their socialization with other children and peers who eat such nutritious food. Children are more receptive to cues they pick from socialization. The importance of role models cannot be neglected in this aspect. Parents need to establish themselves as a guidance source such that they intake healthy and nutritious food at home. At a community level, different informative initiatives can be taken so that the exposure of care-takers and parents towards healthy food recipes and cooking techniques is increased. Food selection and healthy food preparation is an important part of child nutrition. These tips need to be incorporated into child development. Understanding the social behaviour of children too will play a positive role in changing their eating habits and developing utile intervention at home. Parents can play an important role in childhood obesity prevention by perceiving it as a personal responsibility. Through good parental communication they can work on improving the overall attitude and behaviour of their children towards food and nutrition. In addition, they can also participate at a community level by encouraging community sports event and
programs in order to encourage physical activity among their children. This initiative can be taken a step ahead to include and to engage other parents in order to leverage the positive impact of external influences. Balanced diet plays a key role in child care and development. Obesity prevention can be effectively handled if parents or family circles facilitate healthy nutrition options throughout the day for their children.
Source:
http://www.researchomatic.com/Childhood-Obesity-154333.html
http://www.researchomatic.com/balanced-diet-85273.html