It's Never too Early to Prioritize Health

May 11, 2023

It's Never too Early to Prioritize Health

In this month's podcast episode "It's Never too Early to Prioritize Health", we are fortunate enough to be joined by Dr. Chukwuemeka Obidi, a pediatrician at Meritus Health in Hagerstown, MD who is an amazing advocate in our community for helping families get serious about making healthy choices by walking alongside them through the journey and supporting them through the highs and the lows of lifestyle changes. He recognizes that changing diet and exercise habits sometimes requires big lifestyle changes and this can be overwhelming for families. However, he also explains a few of the reasons it is so important to address obesity as soon as possible such as: increased risk of future bone and joint problems, higher rates of heart disease and diabetes, closely linked to mental health concerns, poor self image and bullying. Dr. Obidi helped us dive deeper into some of the psychosocial aspects associated with obesity and provided us with some great resources to help facilitate the transition to a healthier lifestyle in a manageable and sustainable way.


Getting healthy: what does that really mean?


Everyone in our society has heard the term "getting healthy" but what does that really mean? What does that look like? And why isn't it as easy as it sounds? This blog post is going to highlight some of the barriers that exist to living a healthy lifestyle, some of the risk factors associated with childhood obesity, and some key takeaways/resources to empower families to start making healthier lifestyle choices.


What are some of the barriers that families face in the quest to getting healthy?


  1. Culture/family structure that is centered around enjoying meals together can lead to a lot of pressure from family members to make unhealthy food choices
  2. Marketing and advertisements constantly encouraging children and families to consume high calorie, high fat, low nutrition food
  3. Parents are exhausted and overwhelmed by their busy lifestyles that often requires juggling working, getting kids to/from school, extracurriculars, etc
  4. Parents aren't sure which sources they can trust as recommendations for healthy choices change frequently
  5. Healthier food may cost more than unhealthy options 
  6. To truly address childhood obesity, the whole family needs to commit to the process of changing their physical activity and diet habits and this can be really overwhelming to families
  7. Having conversations around lifestyle changs and obesity can be very uncomfortable and it can be hard to truly recognize and address the issue head on


What are some of the risk factors for obesity?


  1. Mental health concerns/high stress levels can lead to using food as a coping strategy
  2. Decreased physical activity
  3. Poor sleep hygiene
  4. Genetic predisposition


What are some Statistics?


Childhood obesity is a worldwide pandemic with a staggering 14.7 million children and adolescents in the US being classified as "obese" (having a BMI in the 95th percentile for their age group). These rates are highest among adolescents, but as many as 12.7% of children ages 2-5 are impacted by obesity. In a society plagued by unhealthy food choices, encouragement of sedentary lifestyles between school, increased screen time, desk jobs, etc. and the high levels of stress and poor sleep hygiene, it's no wonder many Americans feel overwhelmed with trying to live a healthy lifestyle.


What are some things I can start doing today to improve my health?


  1. Address the underlying problem. If you are using food as a coping strategy to manage your mental health, reach out to a therapist to find healthier strategies to support your physical and mental health. 
  2. Find a healthcare professional (nutritionist/dietician/PCP) or fitness professional (physical therapist/personal trainer/fitness coach, etc.) to walk alongside you during your journey and help you develop and stick to your exercise regimen. Remember that living a healthy lifestyle is a marathon not a sprint, and it is okay to have bumps along the road. What matters at the end of the day is that you surround yourself with people who will support you and encourage you when you are doing great and help inspire and lift you up when you need a little extra motivation.
  3. Talk to your family members and try to get everyone involved with the decision to get healthy. Family involvement has been found to be closely associated with successful changes in diet and exercise habits and total weight loss. 
  4. Be intentional with your plans for physical activity. Set a clear goal and make a concentrated effort to meet it. Easy ways to do this include: Find ways to integrate it into your daily routines (examples: going for a 15 minute walk during your lunch break, playing outside for an hour after school before starting homework, walking the dog around the neighborhood instead of letting him/her out in the backyard, etc.). Find things that the family and the child enjoy and use those as motivators to make exercise fun. 
  5. Decrease screen time as it encourages sedentary behavior, or make it a motivator/reward that can be earned by making healthy choices. (example, first I will do a 30 minute workout, then I can watch one TV show).


What other resources can I look into?

  1. Healthychildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics)
  2. Healthykidshealthyfuture.org
  3. WIC program, Washington County: 240-313-3335, Frederick County: 301-600-2507
  4. Doctoryum.org


If you have any questions regarding childhood obesity or think you are ready to live a healthier lifestyle, contact your local health care provider to develop your support system and discuss strategies that may be the most effective for you and your family!


Disclaimer: ***Before drastically changing your diet or exercise habits or starting a new fitness or diet regimen, please consult with your physician. The advice stated above are generalizations based on data trends and are not meant to be used as specific health care recommendations.


Sources:

Childhood Obesity Facts | Overweight & Obesity | CDC

Dabas A, Seth A. Prevention and Management of Childhood Obesity. Indian J Pediatr. 2018 Jul;85(7):546-553. doi: 10.1007/s12098-018-2636-x. Epub 2018 Feb 19. PMID: 29457204.

link to above citation: Prevention and Management of Childhood Obesity - PubMed (nih.gov)

Gray LA, Hernandez Alava M, Kelly MP, Campbell MJ. Family lifestyle dynamics and childhood obesity: evidence from the millennium cohort study. BMC Public Health. 2018 Apr 16;18(1):500. doi: 10.1186/s12889-018-5398-5. PMID: 29807535; PMCID: PMC5971431.

link: Family lifestyle dynamics and childhood obesity: evidence from the millennium cohort study - PubMed (nih.gov)


April 16, 2025
Sometimes kids struggle with trying different foods, especially different textures of foods. Repeat exposure and sensory integration through play helps them become accustomed to various textures, such as sticky, soft, crunchy, smooth. To help your child along the way, build a food sensory board allowing them to experience various foods and textures in a fun and colorful manner. The more exposure without expectation to eat the foods, the more likely they will be to try the foods. Present it to them as a snack in a low-pressure environment. Think kid-friendly, finger foods. Be sure to include one or two of their favorites so they have something familiar and comforting on the board as well. Use a muffin tin, ice cube tray or another divided plate to allow for all foods to be presented in a visually appealing manner. A sensory charcuterie board can be customized to fit your child’s interests. For easy grocery shopping list, check out our downloadable list! To incorporate different textures:
April 14, 2025
In today’s world, screens are everywhere — from tablets and phones to TVs and computers. And while screen time can be fun and educational, it’s important to use it wisely, especially for our youngest learners (birth to 5 years old). The good news? With a little planning and creativity, screen time can be a positive part of your child’s day. If some screen time is right for your family, let’s focus on making it meaningful and interactive. And let’s not forget—there’s a whole world beyond the screen waiting to be explored! Make Screen Time Meaningful Not all screen time is created equal! To get the most out of it, try some of the following tips: Plan what your child watches – Choose age-appropriate shows or apps with educational value. Watch together – Use screen time as bonding time! Talk about what’s happening and ask questions. Record and replay – Save programs for a time that works best for your routine. Encourage active watching – Pause to talk, sing along, or move with the characters. Watch Together: Sit with your child while they watch a show or play a game. Ask questions, sing along, or repeat what you see. This helps build language and thinking skills. Play Along on Apps: There are great interactive apps out there—ones that teach letters, shapes, emotions, and more. Choose ones that encourage tapping, talking, or problem-solving. Press Pause: Pause the show to ask, “What do you think will happen next?” or “How do you think that character feels?” Turning passive watching into conversation boosts comprehension. Make it Active: Turn a show into a game—can your child dance like the characters or act out a scene afterward? Movement helps with memory and motor skills! Mealtime = Screen-Free Time Turning off screens during meals can help your family connect more deeply. Here’s how to ease into it: Start slow – Focus on one meal at a time. Try fun substitutes – Play soft music, read a short book, or chat about your day. Model the change – When adults skip screens, kids follow suit. Let other caregivers (like grandparents or nannies) know your plan. Stick to a schedule – Eliminate screens from one meal or snack every week or two. In a month or two, you’ll be enjoying screen-free meals with more mindful eating and conversation. Screen Time Alternatives Looking for ways to keep little ones busy without a screen? Try these fun ideas: Get outside – Visit a park, go on a nature walk, or plant a small garden together. Whether it’s a walk around the block, a trip to the park, or watering plants in the yard, outdoor time helps kids burn energy and explore the world. Make an obstacle course – Use cushions, boxes, or toys for indoor or outdoor fun. Crawling under, jumping over, and balancing are all great for motor development. Craft and Create – Finger painting , gluing, cutting, and building with blocks help kids learn focus and coordination—and it’s fun! Story time Fun: Read books, make up stories together, or turn on music and tell a tale using puppets or stuffed animals. Unwind without screens – Before bed, try puzzles, books, songs, or crafts to help your child wind down, relax, and improve sleep. Kids Learn Best Through Interaction Children learn from everything they do—especially what they do with you. So whether it’s watching a show, building a tower, or dancing in the kitchen, the magic happens when we join in. With some thoughtful choices and a focus on connection, it can be a helpful tool — just one part of a healthy, active lifestyle for your little one. Article Sources: https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/children-and-screen-time, https://www.kvhealthcare.org/2024/10/mealtime-without-screens/#:~:text=Here%20are%20some%20suggestions%3A,an%20easy%20way%20to%20begin, https://occupationaltherapy.com.au/managing-screentime-in-children/, https://www.health.gov.au/topics/physical-activity-and-exercise/physical-activity-and-exercise-guidelines-for-all-australians/for-infants-toddlers-and-preschoolers-birth-to-5-years
April 14, 2025
Jasper’s Journey: Strength, Growth, and Shining Confidence At Pediatric Movement Center, every milestone matters—big or small. Watching a child grow, connect, and thrive through therapy is what motivates us every single day. Jasper's story is a beautiful example of what can happen when determination meets compassionate, consistent care. When Jasper first began Occupational Therapy at PMC, participating in activities was often difficult. Transitions were challenging, and it was hard for him to stay engaged or seated for tasks. But thanks to the incredible support of his family and therapy team—along with Jasper’s own hard work—things have changed in a big way. Improvements Through Motivation & Determination Jasper has made tremendous improvements in functional play and engagement. He now eagerly joins in on activities and sits at the table with his therapist, remaining seated and focused through to the end. Even transitions—once a major hurdle—are now smooth and manageable. Best of all, his personality has truly blossomed! Jasper’s communication has taken off, and his interactions are full of joy, curiosity, and connection. As Ms. Alexys shared, “ His interactions and personality have blossomed with great communication! ” Jasper’s progress in Physical Therapy has bee n equally incredible. When he first joined PMC, Jasper experienced gait abnormalities and difficulties with gross motor skills like getting off the floor, squatting, jumping, and running. Stairs were especially tough—he often crawled or scooted his way up and down. Structured activities were a challenge, and he tended to keep to himself, not fully engaging with others—even his siblings. What a transformation we’ve seen! With consistent PT sessions and a growing sense of confidence, Jasper has made amazing strides in all areas of his physical development. His walking and running mechanics have improved dramatically, and he’s built strength in his core and legs to complete gross motor tasks with ease. Jasper now walks independently and safely up and down stairs, and he participates fully in activities—not just with his therapist, but also with his mom, siblings, and peers. He listens, engages, and uses his words to communicate what he wants to do. As Mr. Connor puts it, “ Jasper has made excellent progress and continues to work hard every session! ” Keep Shining! At PMC, we believe every child has the potential to thrive when supported in the right way. Jasper’s story is a powerful reminder of that truth. His progress is a testament to his perseverance, his family’s support, and the dedication of his therapists. We are so proud of you, Jasper! Keep growing, keep shining, and keep being your amazing self—we can’t wait to see what you do next! Shared with parent permission.
April 10, 2025
Spotlight on Tillie: Strength, Smiles, and so Much Progress! At Pediatric Movement Center, we are constantly inspired by the determination, resilience, and joy our little ones bring to every session—and Tillie is a shining example of that spirit. Tillie began her journey with PMC just under two years old, joining us in early February. When she arrived, her movement was limited to rolling and lying on her back or belly. Sitting independently was a challenge, and she would often throw herself backward while trying to sit. But Tillie—and her amazing family—were ready to work hard, and that’s exactly what they’ve done. DURING 8 WEEKS.... Over the past eight weeks, Tillie has made tremendous strides in her development through consistent therapy and dedicated practice at home. She has primarily participated in Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI) sessions, which focus on building strength and supporting developmental milestones. Thanks to her hard work and the guidance of her therapy team, Tillie is now sitting independently for up to five minutes at a time while playing with her favorite toys—a huge accomplishment in such a short time! But that’s not all—Tillie has also begun pulling her legs underneath her to get into a hands-and-knees position, a critical step in progressing toward crawling. Her smile when she conquers a new skill is absolutely contagious. She lights up every room she enters and brings joy not only to her therapists, but to everyone she meets at PMC. As Ms. Mackenzie so beautifully said, “ Tillie, you are so strong, brave, and resilient. We know we are just getting glimpses of all that you are going to accomplish! The sky is the limit, sweet girl .” Tillie's Progress Tillie’s progress doesn’t stop with motor skills—she’s also been making incredible gains in her speech and communication development. Ms. Robin shared how Tillie has been working hard in her speech sessions and at home, building her visual and vocal attention and engaging in shared enjoyment during motivating activities. Her eye contact and social smile brighten every session, and she is showing so much growth using a high-tech communication system to express herself. A recent milestone that had everyone celebrating was when Tillie used her device to say “Stop!” during a standing exercise—a powerful moment of self-advocacy and an exciting leap in her communication journey. As Ms. Robin shared, “ Tillie is a delight to work with and makes my day brighter every time I get to work with her! ” We Are So Proud Of You! Tillie’s story is a beautiful reminder of the potential that lives within every child, and the amazing things that can happen when therapy, family support, and a determined spirit come together. We’re so proud of you, Tillie. Keep reaching for the stars—we’ll be cheering you on every step of the way! Posted with parent permission.
April 10, 2025
If mealtime in your home feels more like a standoff than a shared moment of connection, you’re not alone. Whether your child is a picky eater or just a little hesitant to try new foods, it can be tough to know how to support them without pressure. But here’s the good news: with a little patience, a lot of love, and some playful strategies, you can help your child grow into a confident, adventurous eater. Let’s take the pressure off and bring the joy back to mealtime! 🍽 Start with Comfort and Control Before diving into what’s on the plate, focus on how mealtime feels. The more comfortable and in control a child feels, the more open they’ll be to exploring new foods. Make it a routine: Kids thrive on predictability. Establish consistent mealtime rhythms, even if it’s just a few times a week. Wash hands together, set the table, and maybe even sing a little song before sitting down. Prepare the setting: Let’s make meals feel special! Fun plates, silly cups, colorful utensils—these small touches make a big impact. The more inviting the environment, the less intimidating the food. Below are some of our favorite food supplies! Animal Food Picks Sensory Construction Utensils Dinosaur Sensory Utensils Space Themed Plate Meal Spinner Plate Support their body: A comfy body helps a curious mind. Aim for 90-90-90 sitting (hips, knees, and ankles at 90 degrees) to make sure your child feels physically supported at the table. 🎨 Play with Food (Yes, Really!) Exploration is key when it comes to building trust with new textures and tastes. Let go of the mess and say “yes!” to play. Use all the senses: Let kids touch, smell, and even squish foods before tasting them. Describe foods using fun, sensory language: “This carrot is super crunchy!” or “Whoa, this yogurt feels really cold!” Ask, don’t pressure: Instead of asking “Do you like it?” try “What does it feel like?” or “Can you find something red on your plate?” Descriptive language builds comfort and curiosity without judgment. Create silly names: Call broccoli “tiny trees” or chicken nuggets “space boulders.” Food becomes way more approachable when it’s part of a game. πŸ• Familiar Foods First, Then Build Start with what your child already loves, and gently introduce something new alongside it. If pizza is their jam, add a small bowl of dip or a new veggie on the side. Even if they don’t touch it, just seeing it is a win. Change the shape of their favorite foods—use cookie cutters on sandwiches or serve sliced apples like a fan. Novelty sparks interest! πŸ›’ Invite Them Into the Process Ownership turns fear into fun. When children feel involved, they’re more likely to try new things. At the store: Let them choose a new fruit or veggie based on color, shape, or just curiosity. In the kitchen: Invite them to stir, chop (with safe tools!), or plate the meal. Prep meals together ahead of time, especially breakfast and lunch, to reduce anxiety by making them more familiar with their food. In the imagination: Draw food, make sticker charts, or create a checklist of foods to explore. This builds exposure outside of mealtime, where there’s less pressure. 🧠 Consider Sensory Needs Children take in the world through their senses—some seek more input, others are highly sensitive. Meet their needs before meals. Try a quick “head, shoulders, knees, and toes” movement game to address the wiggles, or offer tactile games beforehand to ground their sensory systems. Family-style meals (where everyone serves themselves) help with desensitization—kids see, smell, and maybe touch the food without needing to eat it right away. πŸ‘¨‍πŸ‘©‍πŸ‘§ Model the Joy of Eating Kids love to watch, learn, and copy—especially the grown-ups they love most. Eat together whenever possible. Even if your child isn’t eating the same foods, sitting with you while you enjoy a meal helps normalize it. Talk about your food. “This is so juicy!” or “This pasta has a fun twisty shape!” Show them that food is something to be experienced and enjoyed. πŸ’‘ Caregiver Tips: Prompts and Possibilities Here are a few mealtime phrases that can support exploration without pressure: “Can you find something round on your plate?" “Which food is the softest?” “Wanna help me scoop some onto your plate?” And remember: offer options. Let your child have a say in what goes on their plate or which new food to try. When kids feel like they have a choice, they’re more likely to take a chance. 🌱 Trust the Process, Meet Them Where They Are Every child is different, and that’s a beautiful thing. Some need more time, others need more play, and many just need to feel understood. Watch for signs like pocketing food, gagging, or long chewing times—these may signal oral motor challenges worth discussing with a feeding therapist. But for most kids, consistent routines, sensory support, and a whole lot of playful love go a long way in helping them build confidence at the table. 🧑 Final Thought: Thrilling & Filling Make mealtimes more than just about food. Make them about connection, curiosity, and comfort. The goal isn’t just to get a bite in their mouth—it’s to help them build a joyful, lasting relationship with food. Because a confident eater isn’t made in a day. They’re nurtured—mess by mess, smile by smile, bite by bite. πŸŽ₯ CLICK HERE to Watch/Listen on YouTube
March 25, 2025
The Zones of Regulation consists of four colored zones: Blue, Green, Yellow and Red. Each zone provides a visual for different kinds of feelings and energy levels. Organizing emotions into four simple sections can be a helpful visual for children, allowing them to communicate their emotions by simply pointing to one of the color blocks that hold the emotions they are feeling.
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