Parents really feel they’re falling brief relating to their youngsters’s wants
A new study has revealed the key areas of concern for parents when it comes to raising happy and healthy kids – and the areas where they feel they’re falling short
A recent survey of 1,000 parents with youngsters aged 3 to 10 has uncovered parents are fretting their kids aren’t getting what they need to flourish.
A hefty seven in 10 parents confess it’s a battle juggling their kiddo’s needs, from playtime, to quality family time and not eating enough fruit and veg.
Over a third of parents are wrestling with parent guilt when it comes to ticking all these boxes, and its been found that 4 in 10 think they’re often a bit too lenient with their children.
Their biggest soft spots include extended screen time, pushing bedtime back a bit, and giving them treats while out and about.
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Though its tough getting the balance right, a solid 59% of parents reckon that spending quality time with loved ones is crucial for raising happy and fulfilled children,
This was followed by followed by good nutrition (51%), laughter and fun (42%), and spending time outdoors (25%).
To help support parents, GoGo squeeZ has stepped up with its new ‘squeeZ the Day’ report, zeroing in on three essential pillars: Good Nutrition, Quality Time, and Outdoor Adventures.
“We believe that nourishing kids with the right foods is key to helping them thrive,” disclosed a rep from GoGo squeeZ. “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.”
Pulled together with a range of experts the report was created to offer practical advice and insights that make it easier for families to embrace healthy habits.
Telly star Billie Shepherd helped GoGo squeeZ with the report, shared her own experience: “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.”
Juggling motherhood always keeps you on your toes, muses the mum-of-three: “As a parent, it’s always a challenge to juggle everything,” she admits.
“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.”
Billie & Greg Shepherd take part in a range of family challenges
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The survey revealed that one fifth of parents wish to limit the unhealthy snacks their children consume, while one third aim to increase their kid’s consumption of fruits and vegetables.
Many parents consider their children making healthy food choices a small win in life.
Dr. Zoe Williams, contributing expert to the report, stresses the importance of healthy snacks, stating “Nutritious snacks are vital for children’s energy levels, focus, and overall well-being.
“Choosing snacks rich in vitamins, minerals, and natural ingredients can help fuel their bodies and minds throughout the day. It’s about making better choices while acknowledging the need for convenience as our lives get busier.”
Other contributors to the report include child nutritionist Lucy Upton and child psychologist Professor Sam Wass, known 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
