Nearly one out of three children is now overweight. While efforts targeted at elementary-aged children are showing some signs of success, obesity among the 0-5 set is continuing to grow. According to a recent article in the Los Angeles Times, the seeds for obesity are planted early--even before birth. For the first time is history, children's life expectancy may be shorter than their parents'.

So what can we do? On the Letsmove.gov blog, the president of the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that we start at the beginning. Remind parents that healthy nutrition starts as early as infancy with breast feeding. Once a baby begins eating solid foods, introduce nutritious foods early on and often. It is also important to encourage play time as soon as they start crawling and walking. As children grow, continue to help them live a healthy active lifestyle. Create a healthy home environment where physical activity is encouraged, nutritious low fat food options are available, and screen time and sugared drinks are limited.

First 5 Ventura County also believes that a combination of education, healthy eating habits and a change in social norms are needed to change this disturbing trend among 0-5 year olds.  And through our funded partners and Neighborhoods for Learning, we are doing just that. From healthy cooking and nutrition classes to onsite farmer's markets, community and parent education, and movement, we're working to make early childhood obesity a thing of the past.

To learn more about First 5 programs supporting children's health, learning and families, contact your local Neighborhood for Learning by calling 2-1-1 or by visiting the First 5 Ventura website. Letsmove.gov is another great resources for families and caregivers wanting information on how to keep kids healthy and fit.