Pump Up the Family. (cover story)

This article advises parents on how to promote a healthy lifestyle for their children. If you're like most Americans, you know you need to eat better. You know you need to exercise. You know you need to turn down the stress level. What many adults don't realize, however, is that establishing a fit and healthy lifestyle is critical not just for their own well-being--it's vital for children. Over the last three decades, childhood obesity has skyrocketed: today more than one quarter of all American kids are either overweight or at risk of becoming too heavy. The key to reversing the trend? Parents. Adults should start by stocking the cupboards with nutritious foods and eating well themselves. Portion sizes should be controlled and no child should be forced to finish what's on her plate; kids are their own best judge as to how full they feel. All-out bans on foods--no potato chips ever!--are unwise.