Children age 5 and younger may seem like they have a lifetime to get and stay fit.  In reality, they’re already showing risk factors for adult diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer and more.  By looking at a preschool child, it isn’t always evident whether or not there will be an obesity problem later on.

How can you be sure your child won’t become obese?  What are the warning signs?  Is there anything you can do now to help prevent the possibility?  Asking a medical professional to assess your child is a great first step.  By looking at standard growth charts, a pediatrician will be able to tell if weight gain is at a healthy level or already cause for alarm.  In addition, take a look at the following behavioral factors that can signal future obesity issues.

What foods are your child’s favorites?

If your child eats few fruits and vegetables it’s time to start introducing more into their diet now.  The vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other important nutrients in fruits and vegetables are key in disease prevention.  They also help make kids feel full on very few calories.

Does your child most often like to move and play or prefer to sit and watch?

Each child has a natural inclination to be active or not.  If your child prefers more sedentary activities you’ll need to pay extra attention to make sure there’s plenty of opportunity for movement and offer a variety of movement options so that your child can find at least one form of exercise that they are really excited about and have fun doing.  If your child is naturally active that’s great.  But, be sure to encourage their love of movement and keep it going.

Does your child have an opportunity to be moderately physically active for at least an hour a day?

Check on your preschool to see what kinds of movement is part of the school day.  Keep track of TV or screen time vs. active time at home. Separate what is easiest for you and what is best for your child. Going to the park may be the last thing you may want to do but exactly what your child needs if they’ve been sitting around all day.

How often does your child eat fast food?

Fast food consumption is related to obesity levels, so the more fast food your child eats, the greater the chance they’ll put on weight. Instead of opting for a quick trip to the drive through, plan easy to make meals that your child can actually help with. Like making salads and sandwiches. Also, take your child grocery shopping with you. Kids are more eager to try and eat foods that they have had a choice in selecting. And remember, you can limit the choices so that ANY choice is a good choice (i.e. Which flavor of yogurt would you like?).

What is YOUR fitness level and weight?

Undoubtedly, your own behavior and attitudes will affect your child more than anything else.  YOU are their biggest role model.  To really make sure your child will lead a fit life, spend some time making sure your own will lead to health and wellness.  Children look up to parents, expect them to know best and teach them about the most important things in life.  By taking charge of your own health and keeping fit yourself, your children will naturally want to follow.