Let’s Move With the First Lady
by Tara Pringle Jefferson
I was at home the other day and something seemed odd. I couldn’t quite put my finger on it at first, then I realized what it was.
The TV was off. It was quiet.
If we’re home, the TV is probably on. It doesn’t mean that we’re sitting down watching it. More than likely, it’s just background noise.
Or is it? I already know that the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends NO TV for no children under the age of 2. But let’s be real. That’s pretty unrealistic. Who here has NEVER turned on an episode of Dora or Wonder Pets or Mickey Mouse Clubhouse just to get the kids out of your hair for 30 minutes? You figure, it’s somewhat educational, right? Can’t hurt.
But I realize that my kids watch more TV than is probably good for them. I want them to be more active, but hey, their mama is a nerd and would much rather curl up with a book or sit at a computer than sweat and move my body. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. More often than not, I have to snatch books out their hand before I put them to bed. They’d rather read than do anything else.
So when Michelle Obama (my shero) launched the “Let’s Move” campaign to fight childhood obesity, I was intrigued. With objectives like promoting more physical activity in kids, and healthier food choices in school and at home, what’s not to love?
Check out our First Lady’s passionate call to action: YouTube URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mHA1gneMy8s&feature=player_embedded
Simple, right? The goal of this campaign is to solve the childhood obesity epidemic within a generation. It’s ambitious but it’s worth it. Our kids’ lives are at risk. Childhood obesity leads to a host of health problems, ones that are mostly preventable.
A large part of this plan depends on us, the parents. If we don’t take the lead, it won’t work. We can’t sit and eat Oreos and be sedentary and expect our kids to pick up the apples and do jumping jacks. WE are the example. WE can turn this around.
Join me in pledging to do better. To be better. To set a better example for our kids. Each week for the next month, I will write a post on how I’m trying to make my family healthier, whether it’s through exercising with my kids, turning off the TV more, or trying new foods together.
If you’d like to join me, leave a comment saying how you’re working on making your family healthier. Let’s Move!
Tara Pringle Jefferson is a freelance writer and blogger living in Ohio with her husband and two children. Visit her blog, www.theyoungmommylife.com, to read more of her observations about life, motherhood and love.
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