PARENTS STRUGGLE TO BALANCE KIDS' NEEDS FOR PLAYTIME, NUTRITION AND FAMILY TIME, STUDY SHOWS
According to a recent survey, seven in 10 parents struggle to balance their child's needs, including playtime, quality family interactions, and healthy snacks, due to busy schedules and their child's fussiness.
A third of parents believe their children are missing out on connecting with nature, and other top concerns include ensuring kids eat enough fruits and vegetables and receive one-on-one attention.
Over a third of parents experience regular "parent guilt" about meeting these needs, and 4 in 10 parents feel they are often too lenient with their children, often allowing more screen time, pushing bedtime later, and giving treats while out.
Despite these challenges, 59% of parents believe spending quality time with loved ones is crucial for raising happy and fulfilled children, followed by good nutrition (51%), laughter and fun (42%), and spending time outdoors (25%).
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GoGo squeeZ has just released their fresh 'squeeZ the Day' report, shining a spotlight on three key areas: Good Nutrition, Quality Time, and Outdoor Adventures to help parents boosting kids' physical, emotional, and social health.
"We believe that nourishing kids with the right foods is key to helping them thrive," commented a GoGo squeeZ spokesperson.
"Finding snacks that children love and that are good for them may seem like a small victory, but it's an important step in supporting their growth and development."
The company has teamed up with experts to whip up the report which is packed with tips for healthier living. It's all about giving families a leg-up to adopt better habits, and fostering children's self-esteem and identity.
Telly star Billie Shepherd, who's been working with GoGo squeeZ on this project, opened up about her own family life: "With my husband Greg and I both working, the advice from this report has helped us find balance and feel more confident in the choices we're making for our children's health and happiness.
"As a parent, it's always a challenge to juggle everything," admitted the mum-of-three. "With everything going on, it's easy to feel like I'm not doing enough. But it's not about being perfect it's about making small, realistic changes that can really make a difference."
According to a recent survey, one in five parents are keen to cut down on their child's consumption of unhealthy snacks and drinks, while a third are hoping to see their little ones munching on more fruits and veggies.
For many mums and dads, witnessing their kids make healthier food choices is seen as a small win in life.
Dr. Zoe Williams, who contributed her expertise to the report, stressed the significance of healthy snacking, stating: "Nutritious snacks are vital for children's energy levels, focus, and overall well-being. Choosing snacks that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and natural ingredients can help fuel their bodies and minds throughout the day.
"It's all about making better choices while recognizing the need for convenience as our lives get busier."
Also lending their knowledge to the report were child nutritionist Lucy Upton and child psychologist Professor Sam Wass, famed for his work on The Secret Life of 4- and 5-Year-Olds.
TOP 20 THINGS PARENTS DON’T THINK KIDS GET ENOUGH OF:
- Time in nature
- Outdoor play
- Chores and responsibility
- Fruit and veg
- Community involvement
- Physical activity
- Nutritional snacks
- One-on-one attention
- Reading time
- Quality family time
- Sleep
- Hands-on experiences
- Creative expression
- Unstructured free time
- Relaxation and downtime
- Learning through play
- Personal space
- Home cooked meals
- Role models
- Laughter and fun
