Oh! those mashed potatoes and bread stuffing! Then there are the large helpings of turkey with skin, and that pasta as an appetizer (in some homes)! And the befores of crackers, chip and dip. Not to mention the afters of sweet fruit pies, cookies, rich pretty cakes and pastries! Few of us don’t fall victim to eating too much at special family events around the holidays, but children’s obesity experts are concerned we are setting the wrong examples for our kids. Child Wellness expert, Dr. Stephanie Walsh of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta offers a few tips for busy moms to become role models even at this festive time of year.

• Leading up to big days like Thanksgiving or Christmas, encourage your family to spend one less hour in front of the television and one more hour of physical activity per day to help offset the extra calories consumed.  
• Provide fruit and vegetable platters as healthy alternatives to more fattening appetizers.  
• Eat a light, healthy snack before sitting down to dinner to decrease your appetite and avoid overeating.  
• Serve water with your Thanksgiving meal instead of sugary beverages like lemonade, alcohol and sweet tea.  
• Encourage your family to fill at least half of their plates with fruits and vegetables. White meat turkey is also a great source of lean protein, so choose those pieces if possible.  
• Enjoy a active family game of just watching the sports or movies on television.  
• Take a family walk after your meal as this will help you feel energized rather than lethargic.

Dr. Walsh reminds us that parents serve as role models for their children, so make sure your actions are ones that you would want your children to follow.