Schools are changing their lunch menus across the nation, celebrities are making reality TV, and Michelle Obama started a health initiative to combat childhood obese.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 25 million American kids are overweight or obese. This can lead to a lifetime of health problems including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Many schools have tried to offer healthier lunches by offering fresh fruit and salad bars.

The problem is also being addressed by food and beverage manufacturers. Coca-Cola, along with the William J. Clinton Foundation, has removed soft drinks from schools. And, recently, major beverage manufacturers, including the Alliance for a Healthier Generation announced that they have reduced total calories in drinks delivered to schools by 88 % over the past three year.

“From my experience, schools alone cannot stop children from becoming overweight or obese,” says registered dietitian Sylvia Klinger. “It is very important for parents to make an effort to encourage healthy eating habits at home and outside of the classroom.”

Klinger has these tips for parents who want to see their children live active and healthy lives.

* Make healthy foods easy. This phrase is well-known to all. “eat the rainbow.”You can make it easier for your family to eat fresh fruits or vegetables by chopping small portions ahead of time. Fruits can be added to smoothies and vegetables into soups, sauces, salsas and other dishes. Look out for whole-grain products that are individually packaged, such as 100 percent whole grain bread, brown rice, and oatmeal.

* Create healthy eating habits. Eat breakfast every day. Children who eat breakfast have a lower body weight and perform better in school. Scheduling regular meals is important. Include your children in meal preparation. Avoid the clean plate approach, which encourages eating too much. Do not ban treats as these can encourage sneaky food and overeating.

* Get active. It doesn’t matter what age your child is, exercising is vital. If your child is overweight, you should work to maintain that weight while he or she grows in height. Exercise can help with this. Whatever your child’s age, you can manage their weight and increase energy by engaging in activities such as swimming, hiking, biking, or simply taking a family stroll.