New York (November 17, 2014) – As the days grow darker and colder and the holiday season approaches, kids will end up spending more time off of school and stuck indoors. What’s more, families tend to eat heavier comfort foods this time of year – making it a challenge for many kids to maintain a healthy weight during their holiday break.
Childhood obesity is a national concern, and more than one third of children and adolescents are overweight or obese. In addition to over-eating unhealthy foods and drinking sugar-sweetened beverages, it is thought that an increase in sedentary behaviors, such as watching television and playing video games, is contributing to the expanding waistlines of American children.
“Despite what many people may think, parents do not need to rush out and buy expensive, hi-tech gadgets to keep kids active and entertained,” said Allie Matarasso, M.S., R.D., clinical dietitian, Montefiore. In fact, Montefiore research has shown that video games that require active movement and physical activity to advance the game forward, known as exergaming, do not impact children’s weight. With that in mind, experts from Montefiore Medical Center share simple advice on how to balance kids’ diets and keep them healthy and on-the-go during the winter season.
Indoor activities to keep kids moving
While many costly games and toys are available, sometimes keeping it old school can be just as much fun and a lot more cost-effective. A classic game that ensures hours of entertainment is the old-fashioned scavenger hunt. Parents and even older siblings can create clues and hide them at various spots throughout the house, so kids have to use their brain and their bodies to complete the game. The clues could even have a special holiday theme.
Holiday meal tips
During the holidays with numerous school parties and family celebrations, calorie consumption can go through the roof. In order to keep a balanced diet and not get carried away with all the festive foods, here are some tips:
“Remember, the most important thing is not to make your child feel guilty about enjoying the foods they love,” said Vanessa Wissing, R.D., C.D.N., C.D.E., clinical dietitian, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, The Children’s Hospital at Montefiore. “Let them know that it's okay to enjoy the treats once in a while and encourage them to be active.”
Allie Matarasso, M.S., R.D., and Vanessa Wissing, R.D., C.D.N., C.D.E., are both available for media interviews.