When thinking of childhood illnesses, what generally comes to mind are colds, ear infections, and chicken pox, not high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, depression, and breathing issues. Yet these once “adult” diseases are becoming more prevalent in this generation of children. There are astonishing numbers of kids across the country who are dealing with adult medical issues, because they eat too much, have terrible eating habits, move too little, and are therefore too heavy. At the other end of the spectrum, there are children who are too thin, malnourished, or suffering from eating disorders (such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia). Today, the medical industry’s concern focuses on these horrific eating habits and the lifelong repercussions that go along with them.

This book is an attempt to merge fun with food, combined with an insight into healthful food choices, creating great kids with impressive eating habits. This is not as difficult as it sounds, but it seems to be an integral part of raising well-rounded, healthy children. The best part is that it can be done. If children can be taught how to read and write, they can be educated on how to make better choices—all-around. There is one opportunity for you to do this while your children are young. Your children need you. They are under your complete guidance until they are preteens; you have their undivided attention in molding them and their eating behaviors. Teach them.