The lifestyle decisions we make day to day are the most important determinants of our physical and mental health. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends school-aged children and adolescents follow a few simple steps for healthy living. You can remember these steps as “5-2-1-0”:
5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day
2 hours or fewer of recreational screen time (TV, computer, video games) per day
1 hour of physical activity per day
0 sugar-sweetened drinks per day
The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged 5-2-1-0 in two important ways. First, many schools have adopted “remote learning”, which increases the amount of time kids spend looking at screens. Second, access to parks, gyms, and sports programs has decreased, making it difficult for kids to stay active.
It is crucial that families recognize these challenges and develop a plan to overcome them. For more information and ideas, talk to your pediatrician at your child’s next checkup, or visit:
For more information, please look at this article on HealthyChildren.org
Pediatric Associates of Cheshire