Do four year olds need gatorade after 20 minutes of running? No.
Do they need a 400 calorie pink frosted cookie after 40 minutes of running? Definitely no.
I am completely aware that I am in the minority when it comes to my opinion about snacks at sporting events for children, and I really do not want to offend anyone - but, we really need a healthy snack policy at the rec center.
I applaud the parents who try... Granola bars and 100% juice, they aren't necessarily the best choice and some brands are better than others. But, they are a good effort.
Then there are those who don't think healthy at all...Root Beer and Hostess Cakes. Really?
I am OK with treats. I love treats. My kids love treats. I give them treats often. I just think we can do a better job of refueling our kids after they exercise. We should teach them that sports are good for our bodies and healthy food is good for our bodies. If we encourage physical activity, but don't encourage good nutrition we are sending a mixed message.
Parents are the ones that get caught up in treats. Kids really don't care. They are happy with sliced oranges, those taste good when its hot. If you really want a treat there are some better options. My husband gives me a hard time because he thinks I'm not a cool mom. So, I try to balance being a cool mom with healthier choices.
Here are some snacks I have taken to sporting events:
Yogurt Creamies
Kashi Cereal Bars
Sliced Oranges
Clementines
String Cheese
What have to brought to your kids sporting event?
Do you think I'm crazy?
Wish you had been a mom on my soccer team! I really didn't feel like a Twinkie after a game. I loved when my mom brought oranges! They have mini bottled water that my kids think are fun for special occasions. I am learning with Alex that it isn't so much what I feed him but the presentation. Put a bunch of veggies and some chicken on a stick and grilled it the other night. He actually ate CHICKEN! A first. We will be eating every meal on sticks now! lol
ReplyDeleteI couldn't agree more!! I am so tired of all the treats that my kids get EVERYWHERE!! People will say to me, "it's just one little treat", but it's not, it's one of the many treats my kids get from school, church, activities, etc. They get treats for anything and everything. My kids Primary teacher at Church gives my girls candy at 9:00 in the morning. Who needs candy every Sunday at 9:00 in the morning!? My kids totally expect treats now and that bugs me! What happened to a fun sporting event and giving a high five afterward. Our society has lost it's grip on what healthy eating is! I just found your blog and I LOVE it! We need more moms just like you!!
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