1. LIMIT TELEVISION TIME
• Limit the TV time to less than 2 hours per day. Also incorporate a TV free day where you can allocate 1 day per week where the TV does not get turned on.
• A remote control free household. Yes… even getting up to change the channels will burn more calories than sitting down.

2. WHERE TO EAT
• Avoid eating food in front of the TV, when reading or on the computer.
• Have specific dinning areas to eat meals away from the TV or any distractions. For example the only place food can be eaten in the house, is on the kitchen bench or dining area.

3. SMALLER PORTIONS
• Use smaller plates at home when serving up food, most people serve up food the size of the plate.
• If children want seconds let them wait a few minutes then ask them again.

4. GET ACTIVE
• Instead of directing your child “You need to go for a walk”, suggest to them “Why don’t we go for a walk together?” This will increase their motivation and provide a bonding time between parent and child.
• Make Sunday active family day. Let each family member take turns to choose what activity they would like to do eg. soccer at the park, hire a tennis court, gardening together, riding bikes.

5. EAT BREAKFAST & HEALTHY MEALS
• Make it a standard rule no one in the family can walk out the door without having breakfast.
• There isn’t enough time to eat. Grab a muesli bar, bottle of water and a piece of fruit to eat on the way to school.
• Choose healthy cooking options for meals for example grill instead of fry foods.
• Include fruit & vegetables in your daily diet.

Remember it is the environment in which you live which will determine the lifestyle your child will live. what changes will you implement to assist your family in living a healthy lifestyle?