Challenges and Choices
Kids of all ages tell us that they sometimes feel a lot of pressure and
conflict in their lives, and that it can be hard to tell people because they don’t always feel safe or understood.
Sometimes it seems like the only way to cope with challenges is to try to not deal with them for a while. Kids tell us that when they are stressed or upset they overeat because it seems to make them feel better for a while. Sometimes kids say they eat because they are bored. Sometimes eating too much or choosing less healthy foods is a habit that a whole family or a group has, so it is hard to be different.
What other choices are there? Here is a list of things kids have told us can help with challenges and boredom:
- Taking a walk
- Riding a bike
- Flying a kite
- Writing
- Doing an art project
- Creating a science experiment
- Practicing a musical instrument
- Playing a game
- Reading
- Shopping and finding kid-friendly healthy food
- Making a telephone call to a friend
- Sending an e-mail to a close relative or friend
Some places are easier to make healthy choices in than others. Where is it better and worse for you?