Food
Our modern society is full of high sugar junk food. Look at the sodas, candies, chocolates, and other things we eat! The longer you build up that sweet tooth, the harder it is to reverse the damage.
Make a solid effort to have only healthy food in the house, and to set a good example. Make sugar-free punches and teas. Yes, start out with them sweet, but slowly over the weeks reduce the amount of sweetness in them. Have water easily available. Make easy to consume snacks and keep them on hand. Celery sticks, carrot sticks, tasty dips. Yogurts. Cheese sticks. Simply don't keep cookies in the house. If your kids initially cause trouble when you go food shopping, find a way to shop without them.
I have a TON of recipes on this site to help out - all different types, all different styles. Something in here will appeal to them.
Remember, food should never be a "reward". Don't set up a mental situation where they equate being good with junk food. Find other rewards that they will appreciate.
Exercise
Find an activity that your kid actively enjoys. Get your hands on a Nintendo Wii and get games for it that involve moving around. Get an old PS2 with a few copies of Dance Dance Revolution games. These games - if the kid is stuck inside - at least keep him or her moving.
Try your very best to find some outdoor activities as well. Go for walks together. Go for bike rides. A family that is active together really stays active.
Never make exercise a punishment. Always aim to have it be something fun, something to look forward to. The earlier you start, the more it will become a natural part of your child's world - and your own!
Attitude
Numerous studies show that kids who feel good about themselves take care of themselves. Watch for a week how your child interacts with the family and others. Are there negative influences? Positive ones? Do your best to find ways to calm stresses, smooth our ruffles, to be more encouraging and supportive. Every little change can have a ripple effect!
Reducing Obesity in Children
Lisa Shea's Library of Low Carb Books
