Are your kids staying active enough? With sedentary lifestyles on the rise, many children are facing the consequences of sitting too much and not getting enough physical activity. The impact on their health is alarming, with obesity rates skyrocketing.
But not just physical health is at stake — childhood obesity can also negatively affect mental well-being, academic performance, and future opportunities.
This article examines the compelling evidence linking sedentary behavior and obesity in children and highlights the urgent need for parents to take action and combat this concerning pattern.
Common sedentary behaviors
Obesity is a huge problem worldwide and unfortunately it is getting worse and worse. It is estimated that by 2030, around 254 million children could be affected by obesity, which is concerning.
In the digital age, children are more likely to spend their time sedentary rather than engaging in physical activities. A sedentary lifestyle involves prolonged periods of sitting, laying down, or physical inactivity. Common sedentary behaviors in children, including:
- watching TV or movies
- playing video games
- using electronic devices such as tablets or smartphones
- sitting for long periods during school or homework
- engaging in leisure activities that involve sitting, such as reading or drawing
Consequently, outdoor physical activity is becoming less common in this generation.
A study in Italy revealed some alarming findings about children’s physical activity and screen time. A large percentage (76.5%) of children are getting less than seven hours of physical activity per week, and the majority (63.9%) are spending two or more hours per day glued to their screens. The study further confirmed that spending two or more hours daily on electronic devices was linked to higher rates of childhood obesity.
Screen-based sedentary behavior
It’s common to see children glued to electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and TVs. But did you know that this screen time can actually be harmful to their health? One major concern is that using screens during meals can contribute to childhood obesity.
When children use screens while eating, they tend to eat mindlessly. They do not pay attention to their hunger or fullness signals, and they may end up eating more than they need to. It’s like they are on autopilot, just munching away without even realizing how much they are consuming.
Another problem with screens during meals is that they can increase snacking and cravings. Instead of stopping when they are full, children continue to eat while watching their favorite shows or playing games, and this can drag out mealtimes. All that extra eating can add up the excess calories and contribute to weight gain over time.
Excessive ‘sit time’
Excessive ‘sit time’ refers to the amount of time spent sitting or lying down, often in a sedentary behavior such as:
- sitting in a car or on public transportation for long periods without moving
- sitting for long periods during school, without physical activity during the day
- sitting while doing homework or reading without taking breaks for physical activity
Low energy levels are also indicative of excessive sit time. Children with these behaviors burn fewer calories than they would if they were physically active.
A study found that children in South Korea spend a lot of time studying after school. When participating in study after-school, children may feel stressed or tired. This may lead to increased cravings for high-calorie, high-sugar foods and drinks.
In the absence of supervision, children may easily consume fast food and soda as they are readily available. Over time, this pattern becomes a habit that leads to weight gain and an increased risk of childhood obesity.
Simple ways to combat a sedentary lifestyle
Combating a sedentary lifestyle in children doesn’t have to be complicated. Just by making some simple adjustments to their daily routine, you can help them stay active and healthy. Here are some straightforward ways you can assist your children in their daily routine.
Physical activity
One way to combat the health risks of a sedentary lifestyle is to work small bits of exercise into your children’s daily routine. There’s no need to invest in expensive equipment or activities. Walking is a fantastic and low-risk way to reap the benefits.
For example, encourage your children to take regular breaks from sitting. Schedule days when they can walk or bike to work/school instead of driving. Take frequent family walks or weekend strolls.
Sports or exercise may come with a cost. But don’t let that discourage you! There are still plenty of affordable options available, and it’s worth a try. You could try finding activities that your children enjoy, such as dancing, hiking, or team sports, to make physical activity more enjoyable.
Sleeping habits
In children and adolescents, excessive sedentary behavior is associated with reduced sleep duration. Watching TV or playing video games can be stimulating and make it harder for children to wind down and fall asleep. As a result, it disrupts the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.
If your children are experiencing poor-quality sleep, it’s essential to prioritize good sleeping habits. Recent studies have shown that having poor-quality sleep can increase the risk of being sedentary and developing obesity.
Try to focus on creating a sleep-conducive environment and establishing healthy routines to promote uninterrupted sleep. You could start by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and avoiding electronic devices at bedtime. Limiting screen time at least an hour before bedtime can also be helpful.
Having family meals together
Family meals can be an opportunity for parents to model healthy eating habits and encourage children to try new foods. Children who eat with their families are more likely to consume a variety of fruits and vegetables.
Regular family meals can also be a perfect time to plan some physical activities together. Instead of eating in front of the TV, sitting down for a meal together can encourage conversation and social interaction between family members. Going for a walk after dinner or engaging in other fun exercises can help children develop healthy exercise habits and reduce sedentary time.
In conclusion
Pause to consider your child’s sedentary habits and ask yourself, “How much time do they spend being physically inactive in front of screens each day?” The fact is that these inactive children are more likely to be obese, which can cause adverse health effects. Yet, by establishing boundaries on screen time and promoting physical activity, you can play a crucial role in addressing this issue and fostering a healthier lifestyle for your children.
Let’s transition your kids toward a more active and healthier lifestyle by developing small changes that can make a big difference in the long run!
If you would like to see more resources on pediatric obesity, visit the Parenting Science Labs. Using the research of the Institute for Life Management Science, the lab produces courses, certifications, podcasts, videos, and other tools. Check out the Parenting Science Labs today.
Photo by Alican Helik