Many parents today struggle to keep their kids active. Between digital screens, packed schedules, and hot weather, encouraging outdoor play has become a real challenge. In a recent episode of The Bare It All Podcast, host Dani Barretto sat down with Nikki Gil and nutrition expert Dr. Imelda Angeles-Agdeppa. Together, they discussed the changing nature of childhood and how families can build healthier daily habits.
The New Age of Play Time
To start, modern routines have changed how children spend their free time. Recent DOST-FNRI data shows that 77.5% of Filipino adolescents do not get enough physical activity. In fact, nearly eight out of ten kids are moving far less than they should. Dani recalled growing up in an era where playing outside with neighbors happened naturally until dinnertime. However, parenting today feels very different.
As Nikki captured,
Hindi na siya parang automatic. It needs to be scheduled.”
Furthermore, factors like hot weather, fewer playgrounds, and school fatigue make active play much harder to fit into the day.
Movement and Balance Matter for Growing Kids
Meanwhile, physical movement plays a critical role in a child’s overall development. Dr. Agdeppa explained that inactivity creates a serious energy imbalance. Consequently, this gap can lead to early health risks, weight issues, and poor muscle development. In addition, lack of movement impacts brain development, focus, school performance, and social growth. To encourage active habits, Nikki suggested “removing that option from the table for a little bit” and letting kids decide what to do next. Interestingly, she noted that “it always ends up in active play” because kids naturally want to move. Additionally, the hosts emphasized that technology is not the enemy. While screens can support learning, parents still need to balance them with hands-on play.
Building Healthy Habits Together
Ultimately, creating lasting change starts with parents setting a good example at home. Children mirror what they see around them far more than what they are told. As Nikki reminded listeners,
You really can’t out lecture a bad example.”
Dr. Agdeppa echoed this idea with a simple daily habit:
Parents must actually eat and move together with their children.”
Proper nutrition works hand in hand with physical activity. For example, through its “For the Strength to Do More” campaign, Cheez Whiz offers quick and nourishing meal options. These simple foods give kids the fuel they need to play, learn, and try new things.
Even small and intentional choices help children grow strong and thrive.
