January/February 2025 HAWAII PARENT 83 The start of the new year is a prime opportunity to revamp your family’s health habits. While there are countless articles on getting healthy, we often find ourselves stuck in the same routines. It’s time to shake things up with some fresh, fun, and evidence-backed tips that will have you and your little ones jumping with joy - and energy. 1. Move Together Daily Gone are the days when exercise was a solitary chore. Make it a family affair! The CDC recommends at least 30 minutes of daily movement. Picture this - dancing around the living room, challenging each other to a step-off with step trackers, or playing a lively game of tag in the backyard or park. Not only does this tick off the “exercise box,” but it also strengthens family bonds. Reward all that effort with a cozy family movie night or a picnic under the stars! 2. Prioritize Family Meals Gathering around the dinner table is about more than just food - it’s about connection. Studies tell us that families who eat together at least three times a week are 24% more likely to enjoy healthier meals. Why not make it interactive? Assign roles like table setting or veggie picking to your little helpers. When days get busy, surprising them with a slow cooker meal can make sitting down for dinnertime quick and easy. 3. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate Water is the elixir of life, but getting enough can be tricky. Children need about 5-7 cups of water daily, while adults should aim for 8-10 cups, according to the National Institutes of Health. Jazz up hydration with cucumber slices, berries, or citrus. Make it a fun family challenge - by Jenny Ostlind Membership & Healthy Lifestyles Program Executive at YMCA of Honolulu
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