This article was inspired by Leonardo Norbut, the son of the author’s friend
By Shaina Zazzaro
Healthy habits don’t have to be complicated. In fact, some of the best lessons we can teach our children start with small, everyday choices at home.
Recently, my friend’s son, Leonardo Norbut, shared his own list of ways parents can help kids stay healthy. I loved seeing healthy living through a child’s eyes. His perspective was simple, thoughtful and a great reminder that children notice more than we sometimes realize.
Start with food. Whenever possible, prepare meals at home using whole, recognizable ingredients. Keep easy snacks available like apples, carrots, cheese, celery with nut or seed butter, yogurt or other nutritious options. Kids will often reach for what is convenient, so make the healthy choice is the easy choice.
It’s also helpful to teach children to pay attention while they eat. Snacking in front of the television or a tablet can make it easy to eat without noticing hunger or fullness cues.
Movement matters, too. Encourage children to get outside, play, ride bikes, run around or simply explore. Screen time doesn’t need to disappear, but creating space for physical activity, reading and family interaction helps build balance.
Healthy living also doesn’t mean eliminating every treat. Birthday cake, ice cream and favorite foods can absolutely have a place. Teaching moderation is often more sustainable than labeling foods as completely “good” or “bad.”
Drinks are another easy place to make a difference. Keeping cold water or sparkling water readily available can make sugary beverages less of an everyday habit.
Finally, remember that health extends beyond food. Encourage reading and learning, keep children’sspaces manageable rather than overwhelmed with clutter and choose comfortable clothing that allows them to move and play freely.
Children are constantly learning from what surrounds them. We don’t need perfection. We simply need to consistently model the habits we hope they’ll carry into adulthood.
Leonardo’s 10 Ways for Parents to Keep Kids Healthy
Written by Leonardo Norbut
1. Eat healthy foods at home. Make meals using whole foods and try not to rely on fast food.
2. Choose healthy snacks. Try carrot sticks, cheese, apples or “ants on a log” — celery with nut or seed butter and raisins — instead of donuts or potato chips.
3. Don’t snack while watching TV. You may not realize how much you are eating when you’re distracted.
4. Practice schoolwork every night. Spend time on math, language or reading instead of watching TV every night.
5. Play outside every day. Try to spend at least an hour outside and limit screen time.
6. Enjoy birthday treats in moderation. One or two sweets are OK, but don’t overdo it.
7. Make ice cream a special treat. You don’t need it every day and a kiddie or small size is plenty.
8. Keep healthy drinks in the refrigerator. Have water, sparkling water or fresh juice available instead of always reaching for soda.
9. Don’t have too many toys at once. Avoid buying things that will only be played with once and then become clutter.
10. Choose comfortable, natural-fiber clothing when possible. Cotton, linen, hemp and bamboo are some options.
Shaina Zazzaro is a devoted wife and mother of two, blending her roles with a passion for health and wellness. She is the owner of local meal delivery service, Effortlessly Healthy. For more information, visit www.ehmeals.com.