Childhood Obesity

Growing up in the 21st century is hard for kids these days. There are so many video and computer games that do not require any movement from the kids that they are becoming very static. Childhood obesity is a growing epidemic that needs to be addressed. With video games, television and motorized toys, children no longer exert energy when playing. It is just as important for a child to exercise daily as an adult. Kids need to get into good, healthy habits when they are young so they can continue the habit when older.

It is a good idea to start children in a sport young because it can be very beneficial. It teaches discipline going to practice everyday, it is a form of socializing and making close friends with teammates, and it encourages exercising, which is always good. If a child is not interested in sports, however, it could be as little as going outside to play jump rope, hopscotch, tag with friends or a walk with younger siblings or a pet for them to get their daily activities more exercised based. In the winter time it is harder when it is cold but some fun options could be to go to a school to play basketball in the gym, go sledding on a huge hill multiple times or find an indoor pool and go for a swim. Kids do not have to exercise hard at a young age, but just being active and doing fun exercises will be beneficial.

In a recent New York Times article entitled Video Game Teaches Kids About Diet- Then Turns Off by Reuters addresses the obesity issue and offers some alternatives as well. There is a new video game available entitled “The Incredible Adventures of the Amazing Food Detective” that teaches kids about healthy eating and exercising. There is also a time limit for this game so that kids are not staying motionless for so long. This is a very good idea and more games should focus on exercising and eating healthy.

YouTube video demonstrates childhood obesity factors