Do Parents Need Help to Get Children Moving?

Obesity is on the rise, and don’t count your children out.

Several states have joined together to urge parents to lead the children away from video games and take a walk outside. The push is directed at moms and dads in an effort to promote “Take a Child Outside'' week from Sept. 24 to Sept. 30.

So, here’s the question: Do you think society has hit a point where we need to give children an extra shove to get up and get moving?

Well, the statistics sure prove that it may be necessary. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that 17 percent of American youngsters are obese and millions more are tipping the scales with overweight waistlines.

If the word “obesity” does not scare you enough, then consider these: Diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol, and sleep problems – they are just a few of the problems to which a big backside might lead.

Take a Child Outside sounds like the perfect opportunity to talk to children about the importance of taking care of their bodies. Why not turn off the television and go for a nature hike, play a game in the pool or take a quick walk around the neighborhood?

So, what do you think? Is a week devoted to teaching children about fitness and personal health necessary? Is a push from your state a necessary one?

Chicago Sun Times [Link]