Preventing Child Obesity

By Erin Arnold
Staff Writer

Part of the reason that the figures are so high is that families are increasingly reliant on two full-time incomes and often cannot take care of their children during the day. As a result, many kids are put into childcare facilities. It is imperative that childcare workers create an environment with plenty of physical activity, healthy snacking, and emotional well-being; if they do not, obesity may result.

There are many factors that contribute to obesity problems in youngsters. These include genetic, behavioral, biological, and cultural factors. Basically, obesity occurs when a person eats more calories than the body burns up over a period of time. Other factors than can cause obesity in children include poor eating habits, overeating, lack of exercise, and medical conditions. Though some of these factors cannot be controlled, parents and childcare providers can do their part to promote healthy eating and adequate physical activity. Promesa Multicultural Day Care Center, located on Summit Avenue, is one of many childcare providers serving the Highbridge area. According to Olga Toledo, director of Promesa, they follow strict regulations. “Our program runs from 7:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. and we serve breakfast, lunch, and an early dinner. In the winter we provide a hot, nutritious breakfast and in warmer weather we give the children a snack in the morning,” she said.

Toledo explained that her center also makes sure that the children, ranging in age from 2 to 6 years old, get plenty of physical activity to keep them healthy. “We have a playground and the kids have use of balls and jump ropes. They do a variety of motor activities like skipping, jumping, and walking to keep them healthy,” she said. The staff is committed to promoting an environment that combats bad eating habits and encourages physical activity. Something as simple as a single outdoor session of tag, hide-and-go-seek, or soccer can improve a child’s metabolism and increase energy levels. In addition, if the child is practicing healthy eating habits and snacking on fruits, vegetables, and other low-fat, high-energy foods, their chances of staying at a healthy weight will greatly increase. By sitting in front of the television for just 30 minutes, a child’s energy level drops significantly. It is these types of activities that can lead to weight gain.

By law, Promesa is required to provide fresh fruit to the children once a day. “We usually serve fruit with lunch and we try to give the children another serving with dinner. Also, we must give them milk two times a day. This is required,” she explained. Because Promesa is a multicultural center, the meals include items like rice and beans, steamed vegetables, and chicken. “We must also provide liver at least two times a month,” she said.

Parents seeking childcare providers should look for licensed childcare centers and in-home childcare providers that meet state regulations. In addition, it is important to note that stress, family problems, peer pressure, and low self-esteem can lead to weight gain. By working with childcare providers and family doctors, parents can work towards preventing obesity.