They also think that children who are primarily cared for by extended family members and child care centers are being made fat. As a matter of fact, children in child care centers, in home day care, and who are cared for by “extended family members are 50% more likely to be overweight or obese between the ages of 4-10 years compared to those cared for at home by their parents” according to Dr. Marie-Claude Geoffroy, lead author of the study which formed the basis of the article in the Journal of Pediatrics.
After reviewing research from the University of Montreal and the CHU Sainte-Justine-Hospital Research Center, the Journal of Pediatrics determined that the type of care a child gets significantly impacts body weight but the University did not research why.
As a parent, a teacher and owner of a child care center, I believe that diet, exercise, socio-economics, climate and many more things impact obesity. We all know that America is a fat nation and study after study shows that the children of today are expected to have a SHORTER lifespan than their parents. I am scared for my children and their children.
If you have children who are cared for by others, it is time to sit down and ask them about diet and exercise. At Blue Skies Exploration Academy and our sister center, Creekside Kids, we chose to use Revolution Foods for our meals. Not only do they taste good, they are low in fat, sugars and salt and are fresh, partially organic and often locally sourced. Fresh fruit is provided with every meal. We take leftovers home because they are so good, we hate to throw the leftovers away.
No matter where you send your child for care, the food should be fresh-not canned or from boxes and should be nutritionally balanced. While organics are a plus, fresh foods, a wide variety of foods, low fat and low salt recipes will go a long way toward improving your child’s health. Ask what meals are prepared for your child and inspect the kitchen. Look for juice, cans, boxes and packets-if they are present, consider the impact of this on your child’s health.
Next, ask about exercise. Does your center have a rigid recess schedule or do classes flow in and out depending upon the curriculum, weather, the needs of the children and the interests of the children? The more outside time for children to be active, the better for overall health. If each class has an assigned time and does not waiver from the schedule, you might want to consider how this affects your child’s health.
Our children are our future. By not caring properly for their physical needs when they are young, we rob them of their future health and wealth. Personally, I want my children to be healthy enough to dote on me when I am old and need help. Please pass the peas……..
Citation: Christine Kearney. (2012, November 19). “Kids In Daycare Are More Likely To Be Obese.” Medical News Today. Retrieved from http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/252979.php
