Children are active by design. The urge to move, reach, roll, crawl, walk and run is in the DNA. It is incumbent upon the parents, therefore, to see that their child has every opportunity to do what comes naturally and to support safe and vigorous activity, as well as a healthy diet. If a child is overweight and sedentary, the blame goes squarely on the parents.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that 10 percent of American children 2 to 5 years old and 15 percent of 6 to 19 year olds are overweight. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, this increase in childhood obesity represents and "unprecedented burden on children's health." Eighty percent of these overweight children remain obese in adulthood.

Studies from both the University of Washington and Johns Hopkins University show that a child's weight increased incrementally with the time spent in front of a TV. Television as babysitter — even if it is an educational DVD — is often accompanied by snacks that are high in fat and sugar. Parents too often set a sedentary example by spending hours in front of a TV or computer screen instead of engaging in physical activity, and since the parents supply the food, the kids follow this example and develop the same habits.

Exercise classes for infants and toddlers are a great way for the whole family to get into the routine of exercise. After a baby is born, and Mom has recovered enough to return to or begin an exercise program (usually sometime around six weeks after delivery), there are myriad options for activities together. Most communities have private programs (such as stroller exercise and Gymboree), as well as programs through community centers and YMCAs. Mother, father and child all benefit from these activities because of the bonding with each other and with other new parents. If your local YMCAs and community recreation centers offer these classes, take advantage of them.

Waiting for the child to start programs when they go to preschool or kindergarten may no longer be a healthy option for children in the 21st century. Parental oversight in schools and community is the key. Paying attention to how tax money is spent to support activities for children of all ages can make a big difference in the health of future generations.

Children grow quickly and learn habits early. Helping them become strong, agile, and more confident and comfortable with their bodies builds a wonderful foundation for their future. In his book, "Health and Fitness for All Ages" (Trafford Publishing, 2007), author and fitness enthusiast Elpidio S. Dorotheo says "Health and fitness gained in the early years as a result of a healthy and active lifestyle continue into adulthood and beyond." He points out that babies who get into early baby exercises have a firmer body, better appetite, stronger resistance against illnesses and a better disposition — even through the teething period.

Parental involvement is the bottom line. Turn off the TV and limit computer gaming. Instead, pack up some healthy food and head off to the park. Play tag, soccer, volleyball and Frisbee; get kids onto the monkey bars and jungle gyms. Children who eat properly and are physically active are happier, have fewer life-threatening diseases (like diabetes and heart disease) and also do better in school.

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Linda Buch is a fitness trainer in Denver, Colo., and Lancaster County native. Her book, "The Commercial Break Workout" (Crown/Random House), is available in bookstores. Please send your questions to: Linda@LJBalance.com or c/o "Body Language," Lancaster New Era, P.O. Box 1328, Lancaster, PA 17608. blog comments powered by Disqus