The importance of parenting is becoming more evident as the rate of childhood obesity is rising at a concerning rate. According to Kids Health, “1 out of 3 kids now considered overweight or obese.” A child’s ability to be a confident, healthy, and successful individual can be ruined by this epidemic of obesity. Although there are many factors that create such an outcome, parenting can be a major contributor.

In order to tackle this problem, we need to understand where the problem begins. From my research and analysis, I can confidently say that parents are the problem. Being a parent myself, I know how hard it can be – it IS a full time job. On top of that no parent can control every aspect of their children’s lives, and no child is perfect. However, when it comes to something like obesity, it is time for parents to step up to the plate.

How can parents make sure their children are healthy?

Stop denying. When it gets to the point where the pediatrician is telling you your beautiful child is not longer at a healthy weight – listen. It is second nature for any parent to believe their child is wonderful, and most likely they really are wonderful. But that is no excuse to allow their health and well-being to be jeopardized. Talk to your pediatrician, listen to the facts and get advice.

Make Time. Our lives can get pretty chaotic, and because of this various parts of our lives may be unintentionally ignored or overlooked. It is essential that our children’s healthy and their weight does not become an aspect of our life that we can’t find time, or energy, to deal with. Whether its finding time to talk to your child about the issue, or finding time to figure out the right foods and exercise, you have to somehow find that time.

Take control. Often times we don’t even realize it, but our kids are telling us what to do instead of the other way around. Although you may not always get the best response, you have to be able to put your foot down. Especially when it comes to health. If we let our children do the grocery shopping, our cabinets would be full of chips, popcorn, and ice cream. It is up to the parent to decide what food is made available to their child, taking the control back.

Most of all – Ask for help! If 1 out of 3 children are overweight, you are not alone in this problem! Whether it’s a teacher, the pediatrician, or another mother, there are others who can help.

The health problems that inevitably come with being overweight, as well as the emotional and mental damage, is something that no child should have to deal with. As parents we must find ways to keep our kids happy and healthy.