As we get ready for the festive season in New York State, a study from Lurie Children’s Hospital has revealed some insights about our kids’ health habits. 47% of parents admit that their children’s diets take a nosedive during the holidays. That means lots of sweet treats, unhealthy food, and not enough focus on eating those veggies.

Over half of parents are worried about their kids’ weight, but many of them confess to not being the best health role models themselves. Add in the fact that 40% of kids aren’t getting enough exercise – especially since the pandemic – and we’ve got a health problem.

Technology could be to blame too, with 63% of parents feeling that screens are making it tough for their kids to stay healthy. 85% of the respondents think American culture isn’t helping our cause in promoting good health habits among our little ones.

When it comes to fighting childhood obesity, parents feel like they’re up against healthy eating habits (hello, veggies on repeat), managing screen time (gotta love the YouTube rabbit holes), and getting kids to keep it moving (screen time strikes again).

One in three parents worry about their child’s mental well-being because of their weight, and some kids have been bullied because of it. Having a tough time talking about body image? One in five parents find that to be quite the challenge for them.

As we enter the holiday season, it’s time to get creative with keeping our kids healthy. Maybe that means switching some sweets for healthier snacks and setting limits on screen time.

If you need tips or support getting through these health challenges with your kids, reach out to your local healthcare providers or even just chat with other parents.