In a society where childhood obesity is constantly on the rise, more and more organizations are created to help prevent obesity in children and to expand the knowledge and information available on child nutrition to parents and children alike. By increasing opportunities for children to exercise in school and at home, as well as offering healthier food options, we can begin to eliminate the problems of childhood obesity and promote healthy habits for life.

Proper nutrition from an early age can reduce or prevent many medical problems, such as bone and muscular issues and developing diabetes. Leading by example is the best way to promote proper nutrition in the household. Fruits and vegetables are a great inexpensive snack option, and reduced- or low-fat milk should be offered on a regular basis. If everyone in the household follows the same guidelines, it is much easier to teach the children to follow the same healthy eating habits. The responsibility, however, is not solely on the parents or guardians of the child. Most schools follow USDA guidelines in offering a variety of nutritious school lunches and many schools offer a breakfast program, as well. Students are often able to choose fruit and vegetable sides, as well as entrées with or without a meat serving. In addition, milk is the beverage of choice offered with school breakfast and/or lunch. Most elementary and middle schools have a free or reduced-price lunch application that is completed by parents, who must meet the proper income guidelines, so that even children from lower-income families have the opportunity for a nutritious meal every day.

The USDA Food Guide Pyramid is a great place to start as a general guide to daily food choices. Learning to read nutrition labels is also important. Working together with schools, teachers, and other important influences in a child’s life, parents can assure that their child will grow up healthy and strong, and develop nutritious habits that they will be able to pass on to the next generation.