Children are quite impressionable. They use the behaviors of people around them as their guide for most behaviors. Learn to be a healthy role model for them.

What Is a Role Model?

They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Often we don’t realize that what they are imitating is not necessarily the best until children demonstrate it for us. A child who sits in front of the television all day or one who wants to eat a lot of fast food could just be mimicking what they have seen others do.

Parents are a child’s first role models. A role model doesn’t need to be perfect – just someone who is willing to try to be their best before their children and the rest of the world.

You never know what a child might see and imitate. To that end, here are some ideas of how you can set a good example for them to follow. Don’t worry, as long as you are purposed to do what you can to teach your kids the better way, even a mistake or a setback can be viewed as a lesson.

Tips to Become a Healthy Role Model

* Eat all your meals. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but some people forget that. When you skip breakfast, you set yourself and your body up for difficult day. Your metabolism stays sluggish and you might even be tired throughout the day. Even if you only eat something small, such as a couple of pieces of toast or a piece of fruit, eat something.

* Choose healthy snacks. It is easy to stop at a drive-thru window for an ice cream cone or a sugary snack. Keep more healthy choices around: fresh fruit, chopped vegetables and dip, yogurt with granola, and fruit juice. Make the healthy choice yourself and encourage your kids to do the same.

* Watch the calories in your beverages. It is easy to drink at least half of the day’s caloric allowance in your beverages alone. One eight-ounce glass of soda has about 120 calories, and most people drink much larger portions, such as fast-food restaurants. When you choose unsweetened beverage choices and water, you don’t need to measure your intake. The body needs as much water as you can give it each day. If you want something tastier, add a juice ice cube or some lemon.

* Get your sleep. Going to bed at a decent hour lets children know that a good night’s sleep is important for health. You are more alert the next day when the body has had proper time to rest.

* Get active together. It is easy to sit and watch your children play, but they are more likely to get off the couch if you go with them. Participate in group activities with your kids to stress the importance of staying active.

The best way to be a good role model is to start with yourself. Show your children how you live a healthier life and they will want to follow suit