Four simple guidelines for families to make healthier choices.
What is Live 5-2-1-0?
Live 5-2-1-0 is a healthy living and eating initiative that makes it easier for children, youth and families to make healthier choices. It gives four simple guidelines for kids and families to follow:
5: Enjoy - FIVE or more vegetables and fruits every day.
2: Power down - No more than TWO hours of screen time a day.
1: Play actively - At least ONE hour a day.
0: Choose healthy - ZERO sugary drinks.
Why are we hearing about Live 5-2-1-0?
Maybe you’ve seen or heard about Live 5-2-1-0 at school or a recreation centre. Or you’ve used a Live 5-2-1-0 playbox at a local park. It’s not just a message for parents to follow. The key to its success is that it involves the whole community – parents, families, teachers, local governments, parks and recreation groups, health professionals and even private businesses – all working together to make changes that support making the healthy choice the easy choice in our communities.
How can I help my child Live 5-2-1-0?
It can be overwhelming to do too much at once. Help your children by committing to changing just one thing at a time. Use the Live 5-2-1-0 Weekly Tracker to help you choose your own goals and track your progress daily. Set goals like trying to eat powerhouse veggies at least three times per week. Commit to only offer healthy beverage choices when your kids are thirsty. Make sure to pack at least two fruits and vegetables in your child’s lunch everyday.
Resources
- Live 5-2-1-0
- Live 5-2-1-0: Four simple guidelines for raising healthy children fact sheet
- Live 5-2-1-0 video on changing just one thing
- Live 5-2-1-0 playbox locations
- Government of Canada: Tips for vegetables and fruit
- Dietitians of Canada: Sugary drink sense for teens