Lead By Example
■ We hope to see you all with your families at the Dash for Diabetes on Saturday October 14 at Buckhurst Park, where you can head out on our five kilometre course and lead your family into a new and healthier chapter.
In a time where social media is at the forefront of everything we do and everywhere we look there are people updating their status, uploading a photo or frantically responding to a group chat – we have become so disconnected and without realising we are often setting a bad example to the next generation.
It’s time for our generation to “lead by example”. So many children watch their parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles and follow suit in everything they do. Children are like sponges and soak up everything their mentors show them. Everywhere we look there are bad habits, junk food, fizzy drinks, television screens; everything that when added together leads to a very unhealthy and inactive lifestyle.
Whether you are a parent, teacher, minister or group leader in any capacity so many young and impressionable children are watching your every step. Give them something amazing to follow and show them how to live healthy by eating the correct foods and show them how to live longer by taking part in regular exercise.
Here are a few tips that can help you to inspire and motivate your child and set a good example:
Don’t waste quality family time in front of the television, go out to the park and kick a football or throw a rugby ball. This experience will not only keep your family active but will bring you closely together.
Involve your children in meal preparation. Let them know how to cook a healthy meal and let them invest in the meal so they feel part of the cooking experience.
Replace junk food in the house with fruits. Every time someone asks for something sweet point them in the direction of the fruit bowl. This will soon become a habit and if sweets and candy are no longer there they will soon forget to ask for them.
Be an active member of your society. If there is a local run or walk on in your community then get involved. Sign up to your nearest boxing or aerobics class and add variety to your weekdays.
Limit your time on social media and phones. The more time on your device means the less time you interact with your children. Plan a family sports trip to the beach, take a volleyball and healthy picnic and enjoy quality time together without having to post it to your social media accounts.
It’s your time to get up and make a change. Allow your child the best start in life and let your actions guide them on the right path.