Along with teachers, daycare staff and other caretakers, parents can lead the way in providing active play opportunities for children every day. And as role models of their family's lifestyle, parents demonstrate through their actions that they value and enjoy active work and play. When Dad takes the kids to breakfast, they might walk or bike to the restaurant. Mom can invite family members to join her in a fundraising walkathon or her video aerobics workout. Some parents enjoy coaching children's teams or leading clubs that feature hiking, boating, or other active recreation.
Parents can also lobby schools to include physical education in their curriculae.
Your children are watching. See ADA's Child Nutrition and Health Campaign for related research articles, fact sheets, games and more.