Healthy Weight: Information for Parents

Parents have a strong influence over their children’s behavior. Setting a good example by eating healthily and being physically active goes a long way towards lifelong good habits for children.

What you should do

  • Select childcare providers that prioritize nutrition and physical activity;
  • Demand healthier foods in your child's school by getting involved in the school PTA/PTO;
  • Offer a variety of foods including fruits and vegetables, low fat dairy products and whole grains;
  • Limit juice to 4 oz. per day if at all;
  • Make low fat milk and water the beverage of choice;
  • Pack your child’s meals and snacks with healthy option;
  • Learn how to help your children eat smart and move more outside of childcare;
  • Avoid power struggles over food;
  • Limit exposure to junk food marketing and advertising by limiting screen time (TV, video games, mobile phones and computers);
  • Encourage your child to get involved with active sports;
  • Limit fast food when you are on the go;
  • Visit Fruits & Veggies More Matters to get healthy eating tips and information on promotions, contests, events and activities in your community.