News headlines today featured a classic childhood book, “The very hungry caterpillar”, written by Eric Carle in 1969. On the first day of spring, thousands of these books will be sent to pediatricians nationwide to begin “Eating Healthy. Growing Strong”, a campaign to fight childhood obesity. This campaign is intended to help physicians, parents and children discuss healthy eating habits, including portion control.
The story of the very hungry caterpillar is of a little caterpillar who wakes up feeling...you guessed it, 'very' hungry. He goes through the week eating fruits and vegetables, until the weekend where he stuffs himself with all kinds of unhealthy food. The result? He gets a terrible stomach ache. He learns that the type and amount of food we eat make a difference in how we feel and how we grow.
How will this affect you and your children in the Harrisburg area? Well, ask your child's doctor if he or she will be receiving copies of the book, growth charts, and reading guides. Tell him that you are interested, and would like more information on helping your child learn portion control and healthy eating habits. Your doctor may decide to take part in the campaign even if he will not be a recipient of the free materials. It never hurts to ask!
As a parent, it is up to you to model healthy eating habits and serve healthy meals. You can take steps today to encourage healthy eating habits in your home. Take your child to the local library and check out some fun books on nutrition, healthy eating, or even a copy of "The very hungry caterpillar". Try some new healthy recipes and include your child in the preparation. You may discover that the process of modifying your diet to be healthier is actually fun!
Comments