Being Childlike Weighing In

There has been much talk in the media lately about kids in our country and how healthy or unhealthy they are. Childhood obesity is clearly on the rise and becoming a huge problem. It seems that with advances in technology kids would rather sit inside and play video games or spend time online rather than getting outside and riding their bikes. Fast food fits in nicely with our fast paced lifestyles and only adds to the problem. Sometimes it seems that childhood is much different now than it used to be. And while change is not always a bad thing- this change seems to be leaning towards kids living much more unhealthy lifestyles.

While things may seem different- some things never change. This week I have the opportunity to be a team leader for Vacation Bible School at my church. Each evening the kids amaze me at how much energy and creativity they have! Last night I watched as my team visited their game rotation and had so much fun running and playing tag. I was also amazed as these kids after two hours of serious stimulation still had the energy to dance and sing their hearts out at the end of the evening. It makes me tired just thinking about. The best part was- they were having an absolute BLAST!

So while childhood obesity and generally unhealthy children are becoming the trend in our country- I’m positive that it can be fixed! Kids inherently like to be active! We need to learn to limit their technology so that they have the opportunity to do just that. Get them outside in these great summer months to run and play. In addition, healthy eating is so much easier to make a habit if you start at a young age. I challenge parents everywhere to make their children’s health a priority and invest time and energy into making sure they are active and eating well.

As adults, we can take a few pointers from those kids too! Take some time to run and play too this summer. Not only will it make you physically healthier but I promise that you won’t be able to stop smiling. Contrary to popular belief being childlike can be extremely healthy!

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by Lindsay Eichelman