I was at home the other day and something seemed odd. I couldn’t quite put my finger on it at first, then I realized what it was.
The TV was off. It was quiet.
If we’re home, the TV is probably on. It doesn’t mean that we’re sitting down watching it. More than likely, it’s just background noise.
Or is it? I already know that the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends NO TVfor no children under the age of 2. But let’s be real. That’s pretty unrealistic. Who here has NEVER turned on an episode of Dora or Wonder Pets or Mickey Mouse Clubhouse just to get the kids out of your hair for 30 minutes? You figure, it’s somewhat educational, right? Can’t hurt.
But I realize that my kids watch more TV than is probably good for them. I want them to be more active, but hey, their mama is a nerd and would much rather curl up with a book or sit at a computer than sweat and move my body. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. More often than not, I have to snatch books out their hand before I put them to bed. They’d rather read than do anything else.
So when Michelle Obama (my shero) launched the “Let’s Move” campaign to fight childhood obesity, I was intriguted. With objectives like promoting more physical activity in kids, and healthier food choices in school and at home, what’s not to love?
Check out our First Lady’s passionate call to action:
Simple, right? The goal of this campaign is to solve the childhood obesity epidemic within a generation. It’s ambitious but it’s worth it. Our kids’ lives are at risk. Childhood obesity leads to a host of health problems, ones that are mostly preventable.
A large part of this plan depends on us, the parents. If we don’t take the lead, it won’t work. We can’t sit and eat Oreos and be sedentary and expect our kids to pick up the apples and do jumping jacks. WE are the example. WE can turn this around.
Join me, and other mom bloggers, in pledging to do better. To be better. To set a better example for our kids. Each week for the next month, I will write a post on how I’m trying to make my family healthier, whether it’s through exercising with my kids, turning off the TV more, or trying new foods together.
If you’d like to join me, leave a comment saying how you’re working on making your family healthier. Let’s Move!
I’m so, so guilty of this too. Like, to the point that when I suggest she goes play, she says in her little attitude voice, “I don’t WANT to play Mommy, I want to watch a movie!” That’s bad, I know. It’s so hard to get things done some times though without it (especially as a college student), but I think the key is moderation and I’m working on that. I have seen the educational benefits of some TV programs, but it shouldn’t be the only way they learn and only thing they do all day. I’m working on it and I’m glad Michelle Obama is bringing even more awareness/reminders to parents!
I’ll check out the website you linked for more ideas/information. Thanks for linking it, I hadn’t heard about it yet.
I love this! I plan to participate.
So excited about Ms. Obama’s new platform! We definitely need that.
I’m glad Chase has started walking, as he’s really getting the exercise that he needs now! He loves to dance as well, and we really encourage that in our household as well.
I have realized the last few days that I turn my tv on for my 17 month old daughter WAY too much – It’s just that I need some more space and time for myself . . . or that i’m selfish and need more time online — either way, I need to turn the tv off and enjoy time wiht my daughter!
It all started when I went to the market today with my son. The fruit hits you as soon as you enter. My son and I picked up grapes, oranges, apples and bananas. We like to eat our grapes froze. I did go into the sugar isle because I needed some in the house. Son asked if we could by cookies for snacks. I told him “Nope, that’s what the fruit is for”. Can we have soda, “Nope, plenty of water comes out of the facet”. Junk food and soda and juices are such big culprits with childhood obesity. We can beat this, but it starts with parents at home.
Thanks for sharing the video link. Michelle is awesome!
We’re actually pretty good about TV and movies in our household – no movies or TV allowed during the school week. (Two exceptions: Election night and Olympic figure skating!). I’m trying to cultivate healthier eating habits for our family. I have a sweet tooth myself, so it is hard. Reach for those apples!
*sigh* I love Michelle!
We’ve also been working towards being healthier. I only let Donnie watch t.v. Friday-Sunday, we’ve given up red meat and we’ve incorporated partial vegetarianism (we don’t eat meat Monday-Thursday, fish on Friday’s and anything we want Saturday and Sunday).
When we get a house (we live in a condo now) I also plan on having my own fruit/vegetable garden.