Recent government statistics reveal that about 17% of our nation’s children are obese, and about 30% are overweight, making childhood obesity a national epidemic. Physical therapist members of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) say that parents can help their children avoid the obesity trap by making sure that kids fit physical activity into each day.

• Learning a healthy, active lifestyle when younger encourages our children to stay active as adults. Set an example for your child by being active yourself, and trying new exercise routines or sports activities. e show (or at least during the commercials) such as sit-ups or push-ups.

• Limit television, video game, and computer time. Remember that television commercials encourage children to crave the foods they see. When your child watches television, encourage him or her to do some exercises during the show (or at least during the commercials) such as sit-ups or push-ups.

• Encourage kids to take part in school and outside team sports, but adopt a fun attitude towards sports. Too much competition can turn children off to exercise.

• Plan weekend family activities involving exercise, such as bowling or bicycling. Walk to school together.

• Help your child plan group activities for friends, such as skating or hiking. Organize a school walkathon.

• Remember that your family does not need to join a health club or gym or buy fancy equipment to be more active. Walking is inexpensive and easy- walk to school daily. Weights can be made from soda or detergent bottles filled with sand or water.

• Provide positive rewards for your child for engaging in physical activities, such as workout clothes, a new basketball, or an evening of roller-skating.

• Provide positive feedback about your child’s lifestyle changes. Remember not to focus on the numbers on the scale (for you or your child).

• Be your child’s “exercise buddy.” Plan daily walks or bike rides and set goals together for increasing physical activity. Do not set goals of losing weight.

• As you schedule your child’s extracurricular activities, remember to plan time for physical activity and exercise. Physical activity should not be “squeezed in” only if there’s enough time.

From the American Physical Therapy Association, www.apta.org

The California Physical Therapy Association has endorsed “ America on the Move”, a nonprofit national campaign to fight against obesity. After registering online at www.americaonthemove.org, there is assistance with information for healthy eating, exercise and setting goals. The website has many great ideas, including updates on how to stay active!