Making Healthy Living a Family Affair

We’ve all heard the grim statistics about America’s weight problem, which is particularly disturbing when it comes to our kids. According to the CDC, approximately 17% of youth aged 2—19 years are obese. Parents play a vital role in forming a life-long healthy attitude toward exercise, and most don’t realize the power they have to model healthy behavior to their children.

“What we tell our kids matters half as much as what we show our kids,” says Autumn Vandiver, educator and fitness professional. “The best scenario is when families exercise together.”

Moving together as a family should happen early and often. Rae Pica, a movement education specialist and the author of A Running Start: How Play, Physical Activity, and Free Time Create a Successful Child, believes movement and exercise for kids should be as much of a habit as brushing teeth daily–but more fun.

Vandiver agrees.  “Expose your child to a physically active lifestyle as soon as possible,” she says. “Even a Mommy and Me Bootcamp allows kids to soak up the idea that taking care of yourself is important.”

Exercising as a family not only develops positive associations with healthy living, it also strengthens family bonds and can be a place for children to take risks and try new things.

“Kids are more likely to try things when they’re older when they’re given the permission and freedom to try things in childhood,” says Vandiver. “Non-competitive Family Fitness classes can be a great place for children to experiment moving their body without judgment, where they can be the best they can be.”

 Vandiver’s Family Fitness class at the Oshman Family JCC typically includes obstacle courses, group games and activities that facilitate connections among parents and children.

“The physical exercises become secondary,” says Vandiver. “My job is to make sure that the children feel good about themselves every time they leave and that they’re excited to come back.”

For more information about youth and family fitness programs at the Oshman Family JCC contact Robert K. Vaughn at (650) 223-8655 or rvaughn@paloaltojcc.org.

This week at the OFJCC

Family Fitness
Sundays, 3/18-4/29 ∙ 11:30 AM-12:30 PM
Connect and move with your kids! Incorporate healthy living into your family's daily routine. More

Living Strong, Living Well
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 3/13-5/31 ∙ 4:00-5:15 PM
A complimentary strength and fitness program for cancer patients and survivors. More

Breathe: Women's Wellness Symposium
Sunday, 3/18 ∙ 9:30 AM-2:30 PM
Last chance to register! Spend a thoughtful and relaxing day devoted to you. More