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We used to hear, "Mom, can I go roller skating?" "Has anyone seen my jump rope?" and "Dad, can I ride my bike?" Now, we hear, "Mom, can I play some video games?" "Has anyone seen my game boy?" "Dad, can I play on the computer?"

Obesity among school-aged children has more than quadrupled in the last 30 years, going from 4% in 1974 to 17.5% in 2004. Childhood obesity contributes to high blood pressure and cholesterol, arthritis, clogging of the arteries, insulin resistance and an increase in injuries. While this is alarming, it should not come as a surprise.

So where does the fault lie? Happy meals, sugar pops, pizza parties, krispy kremesyou get the picture. Our schools are lined with soda and snack machines stocked with every highly-processed, sugar-laden snacks imaginable, enticing our kids to eat until their heart's content (or at risk).

The computer, television and video age has definitely contributed to the problem. Children no longer form a neighborhood baseball game, play capture the flag, or ride bikes down to the 7-1l. Instead, statistics show they spend an average of 28 hours a week watching television and a quarter of those kids watch 4 or more hours of T.V. per day. Add to that the time spent on the computer and video gaming, and we have a serious crises on our hands.

How can we combat this alarming trend?
(1) Parents, you should limit your children's total media time, preferably to no more than one hour per day.
(2) Schools need to step up and do the right thing by providing only healthy food and snack options. Some schools are beginning to make some smart decisions in this regard. Lets hope the trend continues.
(3) Parents, insist that your child get outside to play, play, play!
(4) Parents, set a good example in both proper eating habits and exercise. If they can't find the junk food, they can't eat it!
(5) Start a routine of family recreationbiking, roller-blading, swimming, or racquetball.

Children need our assistance and guidance to make healthy choices and lifestyle changes. Let's not let them down.

Learn more about this author, Mark Scott Stewart.
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