How to Use TV to Build Healthy Kids

FitSmart by Jorge Cruise**

TV doesn’t always have to be the enemy, especially when it comes to raising fit and healthy kids. Here are four tips to get you started.

LOOK AT YOUR HABITS—“If you create a healthy role model for your kids, they will replicate that,” says Nancy Kanter; senior vice president, Playhouse Disney Worldwide.

ENLIST CHARACTERS—If your “kids see Mickey or Goofy trying to get fit, they are so attached to these characters, (it could be an opportunity) to develop interest,” Kanter says. “This can trigger a conversation with your kids and lead you to the park to kick the ball around.”

FIND SHOWS WITH POSITIVE MESSAGES—Check out parenting magazines or online message boards for suggestions.

WATCH ALONG—“The best thing is to watch TV with your children,” Kanter says. “When they see someone making a banana smoothie, you can help them incorporate it into their life by making smoothies together.”

**Source: USA Weekend

http://www.usaweekend.com

I thought this was an interesting article and thought I would pass it along to you. Whether it is your own children or ones you care for daily, these suggestions are good. And in the event you feel like making a banana smoothie, here is a recipe below!

Tania

Make an Orange and Banana Wake-Up Smoothie

You'll need:

• 1 banana • 1/2 cup milk • 5 ice cubes • 4 tablespoons (Tbsp.) frozen orange juice • 1/4 cup pineapple juice • blender • measuring cup and spoons • This recipe serves 1.

What to do:

1. Crush the ice cubes in a blender.

2. Add all of the remaining ingredients and blend until creamy.