Keeping children motivated with healthy habits

Children stay interested in healthy habits when they feel fun, shared and achievable rather than like chores.

Make it enjoyable

Turning habits into games, challenges or routines children take part in helps keep them keen.

Give children a role

Letting children choose a fruit, plan an activity or tick off a routine chart helps them feel involved.

Ways to keep it going

• Use a simple routine chart rather than food rewards
• Praise effort and trying
• Do habits together as a family
• Keep goals small and clear

Expect changes

Children's interest comes and goes. Gently returning to the routine helps more than pushing hard.