Another study (just love those research people) now shows that kids gain more weight during the summer than they do during the school year. Does this mean that we can't blame school cafeteria food? Now it appears that kids are gaining more weight under their parents' watch than they do when they spend the day in school.
For years, parents have blamed school lunches like nachos and pizza and mac 'n' cheese for the growing numbers of overweight and obese children – about 33 percent of kids and teens, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
But it turns out that kids gain more weight in the summer, when parents are supposedly in charge of what they eat, than they do while they're in school, says a study in April's American Journal of Public Health.
Kids used to spend more time outdoors during the summer because it was considered safer, and let's face it, there was little to do inside. Technology has opened up a world of interesting indoor activities for kids. Plus, there are more opportunities to eat at home. Kids don't have to sneak food (like so many of them are doing during class) or wait for lunch.
Things aren't so different for us adults. It's not easy to get off the couch and exercise. The article suggests that the whole family get involved in eating right and participating in family exercise nights. Instead of a movie, make it bowling or miniature golf. Put time limits on television and video games. (I know this is a hard one for video games because getting to the next level is always just minutes away. :) Another idea given by parent Emily Santanelli was exerbucks. I really like this one. She recommends keeping a chart and "exerbucks" be awarded for fitness time. Parents could determine the value of the exerbucks. Since my children are all adults, I think I might make a chart for myself and plan to do a little shopping!
Earning exerbucks!