Obesity in childhood poses immediate and future health risks. Help children maintain a healthy weight especially while staying at home during this pandemic with these easy ways.

1. Help children develop healthy eating habits

• Include plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole-grain products, low-fat or non-fat milk or dairy products, including cheese and yogurt, in their diet
• Choose lean meats, poultry, fish, lentils, and beans for protein
• Encourage your child to drink lots of water
• Limit their sugary drinks and consumption of sugar and saturated fat

2. Help children stay active by reducing sedentary time

• Engage them in active family play time with games that get everyone up and moving
• Involve them in household chores such as cleaning out the closet, vacuuming or washing clothes
• Get outside if possible. Mow the grass, go for a walk, or take a bike ride. Remember to maintain a safe distance between yourself and other active neighbors
• Make television watching more active by doing jumping jacks or push-ups during the commercials

3. Ensure adequate sleep

• Infant (4-12 months) – 12 to 16 hours per 24 hours (including naps)
• Toddler (1-2 years) – 11 to 14 hours per 24 hours (including naps)
• Pre-School (3-5 years) – 10 to 13 hours per 24 hours (including naps)
• School Age (6-12 years) – 9 to 12 hours per 24 hours
• Teen (13-18 years) – 8 to 10 hours per 24 hours