Let’s Go Kentucky: Get Healthier in the New Year
You don’t need a new year to start a new chapter in your family’s life, but it is definitely a great time to commit to a healthier future.
With our devices pulling us into stationary positions we have to be proactive in getting our families moving. We are our children’s first and best teacher and the best way to get healthier is to make it a family initiative.
The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services prescribes 5-2-1-0.
+ Five: Eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day.
+ Two: Limit screen time to no more than two hours a day.
+ One: By physically active at least one hour a day.
+ Zero: Don’t drink sweetened beverages.
For those of you who are looking for SMART – Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely – goals for the new year that will impact your family’s quality of life, this prescription is a great place to start.
I don’t know about you, but being physically active for an hour each day is our family’s biggest challenge. Squeezing in an hour of physical activity shouldn’t be as hard as it is. It is all go, go, go, but not the type of activity that makes us sweat, raises our heart rates or gives us sustained mental relief. But the rewards of making exercise and physical activity a daily priority drastically improves a family’s quality of life. Less stress for parents, much-needed quality time with children, and overall better mental health for all.
As adults, we know how important exercise is, but how do we get our children’s buy-in? Sitting down together for a family meeting is a great place to start. After all, if it is going to be a family initiative, it should involve the voices of the entire family. Try creating a vision board. They are a way to visualize your goals to be healthier and is a great way to have a dialogue with your children.
Come prepared to your family meeting with ideas. Kentucky Family Fun has recommended resources for active families. In addition to walking, riding bikes, playing at the playground, and gardening Kentucky offers many other opportunities for mixing exercise with fun. Click below and print them out to share with your children.
Happy New Year! And may your family meet their goals for a healthier future.
Nicole