THE 5-2-1-0 CAMPAIGN was designed to curb childhood obesity by encouraging healthy habits. The message states that kids should eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day, limit screen time to two hours or less, engage in one hour a day of active play, and consume zero sugary drinks each day.
Here are some tips for implementing 5-2-1-0 in your home.
A child-sized serving is about the size of the palm of the child’s hand. If your little one resists fresh fruits or veggies, consider providing a yummy yogurt dip or protein-packed peanut butter.
Set a good example for your little one by monitoring your own TV time and making sure that the time they do spend in front of a screen is educational and developmentally appropriate.
Physical activity can be easily incorporated into the family routine. Plan to take a walk after dinner, turn on music and dance, or go for a bike ride.
Sugary drinks, including sports drinks and juices, contain unnecessary sugars, and caffeine should not be offered to children at all. Instead, children should consume the recommended amount of water and dairy for their age range each day.
In order to help encourage healthy habits in your home, start today by setting the proper example for your child. Print out a 5-2-1-0 chart, and guide your child to make good choices and complete their chart each day! Contact Pediatric Partners for additional information about the Healthy Habits program.
This column is sponsored by Pediatric Partners.
CREDIT
column by DR. NORA SMITH
BIO: Norah M. Smith, MD is a pediatrician with Pediatric Partners in Winter Haven, Florida. Dr. Smith graduated from Pennsylvania Medical College and has been practicing medicine for 14 years. Previously, she practiced medicine at a community health center in Orlando, caring for uninsured individuals and families.
