Making healthy lifestyle changes can seem overwhelming at first, but it does not have to be. Here are some quick tips to get your child and family started. Please remember the POWER team is always here to help!

Be positive role models.

• Make changes as a family - not just for the child referred to our clinic. Change can be difficult, especially without the support of loved ones.
• Focus on healthy living - not weight loss. We want to help your family make healthy lifestyle changes. Your child is growing and developing, and healthy habits are our #1 goal.

Take small steps.

• Every 1-2 weeks make a few realistic goals with us and/or on your own.
• Making changes slowly will be better for the entire family.
• Find food-free rewards as a family for accomplishing goals, such as stickers, family movie night or fun with friends.

Do not be too restrictive.

• There is no such thing as a perfect diet or activity schedule; allow for some fun time with food and play.
• Moderation and portion control are key! Family pizza night can still exist, just make it healthier. Order or make a thin crust pizza with a low fat meat such as ham and load it up with vegetables. Add a side salad, fruit for dessert and water to drink with portion control being the focus. Add a fun family activity such as bowling or mini-golf, and family pizza night just got healthier!

Get active.

• Involve the whole family - physical activity is an important part of everyone’s healthy lifestyle.
• Exercise does not have to be hard to implement! Find fun ways to be active such as going to your local park, going to the zoo or having family game night with charades. The Physical Activity section of the toolkit has a lot of fun ideas for activities.