Nowadays, it is increasingly common to see children adopting unhealthy lifestyles, such as consuming junk food or staying up all night. There are various reasons for this trend, but some people argue that both schools and parents have a responsibility for resolving these issues. And I strongly agree with this point of view, as children’s habits are developed and shaped by their families and school environments.
Firstly, parents play a pivotal role in shaping children’s lifestyle habits, particularly during their formative years. They are responsible for making choices at home, setting rules for screen time and physical activity. For instance, when parents prepare balanced meals instead of relying on processed food, and encourage regular outdoor activities rather than excessive screen time, children tend to adopt similar routines. In contrast, some parents are so busy that they do not have enough time to prepare nutritious meals or properly look after their children, which may bring about unhealthy eating habits and excessive use of electronic devices. Since children often follow what they observe on a daily basis, children whose parents maintain a disciplined and healthy lifestyle are more likely to use it as a role and imitate it.
Moreover, schools also play a significant role in promoting a healthy lifestyle among children because schools are well-positioned to reinforce healthy behaviours through structured education and daily routines. Not only do schools convey academic knowledge, but also they can support students’ well-being by providing physical education (PE) classes, offering healthy meals, as well as educating them about nutrition and how to maintain good health. Many schools often organize workshops and invite relevant specialists to educate students on essential topics, such as how to use smartphones properly or build healthy routines. Additionally, schools also provide dedicated spaces for physical activities so that students can participate in sports not only during PE lessons but also after school hours. For example, badminton and basketball courts are made available to encourage students to exercise and stay active. Therefore, besides the family, school is a highly influential environment where students develop both positive and negative habits.
In conclusion, although unhealthy lifestyle patterns among children are becoming more widespread, I firmly believe that parents and schools should take primary responsibility for addressing this problem. By providing proper guidance at home and effective education and regulation at school, children are more likely to develop healthier habits and make better long-term choices.