Parents are always looking for tips to assist them in raising their kids to be healthy, active and engaged. I think we can all agree that any information that contributes to a happier and healthier family should appear prominently on our radar screens.
I am proud that Mercy has taken the lead in providing useful and trusted information parents can use, and in this post I want to call your attention to a few of these sources.
Our Facebook pages offer unique opportunities to interact with Mercy and learn from some of the area’s most respected experts in their fields.
One such interaction occurred on our Mercy Children’s Hospital Facebook page when Michelle Rowe, RN, manager of community outreach at Mercy, held a special Q&A session. Along with her role at Mercy, Michelle is an active blogger on her site alwayshealthymom.com. Her clinical nursing experience and enthusiasm for healthy living combine to provide a unique perspective on the challenges we all face today.
Two of the questions discussed in the Facebook chat address a concern we all have as parents – how to make sure our kids get a balanced diet without taking the fun out of an occasional fast food meal, or even pizza.
Here’s a summary of Michelle’s responses:
“My advice is, look ahead at the menu. Before you’re in the car, be prepared to know what you’re going to order. Look for yogurt, fresh fruit and grilled options. My favorite is Subway. Everyone can find a healthy option. Healthy tip from Michelle – don’t forget about spinach and broccoli – they are powerhouse green vegetables. Pizza can be a healthy eating option, when prepared properly. Start by ordering thin or whole-wheat crust, next ask for light cheese and start adding the veggies! You can also order a side salad to help make the meal even healthier.”
I also liked Michelle’s advice to a mom who was having trouble keeping herself on track physically because of all her family responsibilities:
“First PRIORITIZE! Remember you cannot take care of your family, without taking care of yourself. You’ll be a better mom, wife and professional when you take the time to exercise and eat healthy. For starters, try a 10 minute walk on your lunch break, then add a 10 minute family walk – now you have 20 minutes of physical activity. It all adds up!”
That’s great advice. I hope you will connect with us further to find more helpful tips and information! Mercy Children’s Hospital on Facebook
Mercy Pediatrician, Dr. Colleen Olson is very active on her Facebook page at Mercy Pediatrics of Maumee.
And you can stay up-to-date on all of the happenings at Mercy, including tips for healthier living on the Mercy Facebook Page.
If you’re on Twitter, we’re there too! Follow us: @mercynwohio
