Well, in all seriousness, this topic interests me. I'm the father of two sons, 19 months and 2 weeks. I grew up in a very active environment. But my parents didn't face the challenge that many parents now face - video games.
Atari came out and made a big splash, but by that time I was too involved in sports as a kid to let it take up too much time. Now things are different.
I cringe whenever I see a fat little kid. It's pathetic. Besides educating my boys as they grow, I must also ensure their attention to physical fitness. Why do so many parents neglect this? It's mind-boggling.
Congratulations on the new addition.
This topic interests me as well. I have no doubt that several million of our tax dollars were spent to make this important discovery, and I'm wondering how to get in on the action. I could have reached the same conclusion for as much as 10 percent less than this study cost.
All things in moderation.
I have a 6' 18 year old, and he weighs about 155 lbs.
He played video games, but he also liked the outdoors and sports. We've got a heavy bag and speed bag in the garage, and a chin up bar, which he and his dad use.
He never played organized sports, but played baseball, football, warball, manhunt, etc. on a regular basis with his friends, and still does.
Video games aren't "evil" (if you choose the right games), just don't let them become obsessed with them. Set limits. My kid didn't watch TV, he was never interested, so an hour on a video game didn't seem excessive (I actually think they learn a lot of skills through video games.)
P.S. Also, don't mistake a 10 year old pre-pubescent chunky kid for a "fat" kid. Many boys go through that stage. I've had friends want to put their 10 or 11 year old boys on diets, but they hit puberty, shoot up in height and get tall and muscular.
You mean husky - Lots of kids are fat in preteens
I totally agree. My son, who will be four in Sept., is outside everyday playing. My 16 month old is out with him whenever he's not taking a nap. (I can't believe he can climb the ladder and come down the slide on his own already on the playscape)
Parents who let their children get fat should be put on work programs cleaning the elderly, obese people's behinds who can't do it for themselves. Just so they know what their children are getting in for.