My goal to live healthy in 2012 isn't just for myself; it's for my husband and kids too. But sometimes living a healthy lifestyle is a challenge when it becomes a family goal. Here are some tried and true strategies that have worked for me and my crew - they'll help your family live healthier and happier too!
1. Play together
Planning play times together is a lot more fun than a trip to the gym and you can burn just as many calories. Games like tag, hide-n-seek and kickball are easy to do at home and are a great workout for everyone. You might also try making up a family dance - one of the favorites at my house. Pick a song and work on the groovy moves together. You'll be bonding and doing something good for your health, plus your kids will sleep like little angels at the end of the day.
2. Snack smart 
Getting my kids to eat healthy was a challenge at first. Let's be honest - no one wants plain celery sticks when potato chips are sitting there waiting in the cupboard. One of the best ways to get kids excited about eating healthy, especially the little ones who are particularly picky, is to incorporate fun colors into every meal. Think bright orange sweet potatoes, rich green beans, vivid yellow pineapple - all the colors of the rainbow make eating and snacking both fun and healthy.
3. Shop together
I found that having my kids come to the grocery store with me is a great way to teach them about healthy foods and encourage them to make nutritious decisions for themselves. For example, by exploring the fresh produce section or the all-natural food aisle together, I can point out what options are delicious and nutritious. Then I let them choose something for themselves. The next time they want a snack, they frequently pick what I let them choose at the store, so both mom and the kids feel like winners.
4. Remember rewards
Having a healthy family isn't about depriving them of anything - it's all about balance. So when my family eats a healthy dinner, I let them have a small treat for dessert. Maybe everyone gets a cookie or a scoop of sorbet. If my son makes a healthy snack decision, I let him stay outside for an extra 15 minutes to play. As the parent, I think it's important to acknowledge my kids' efforts and make sure they know I'm proud of them.
5. Practice what you preach
Whether they say it or not, kids look up to their parents. I want to show my kids that I make healthy choices in my life and expect them to do the same. When I'm having a meal replacement drink, my kids sit and eat a healthy breakfast or lunch with me. When I skip soda and opt for water, it shows my kids it's a smart choice for them too. Living by example is so important, so be sure to practice what you preach.
