This video explores five fun facts about carbohydrates.
Tips for Parents
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Here's how to talk to your child about it
You learned that carbohydrates give us energy and are found in many foods. There are simple and complex carbohydrates, and our bodies need them to function properly. It's important to have a balanced diet and talk to a doctor or dietitian if needed.
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Some activities you can do with your child now
- Discuss with your child the different types of carbohydrates mentioned in the video, such as simple carbs (sweets, fruit) and complex carbs (potatoes, whole wheat bread). - Encourage your child to identify and categorize foods in your pantry or during a grocery store visit as either simple or complex carbohydrates. - Have a conversation about the importance of a balanced diet and why it's recommended to get the majority of carbohydrates from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. - If your child shows interest in a specific health condition mentioned, like diabetes, research together to learn more about it and discuss how it relates to carbohydrates.
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Pretend play with your child
GAME: Carb Fact Detective INSTRUCTIONS: Take turns with your child being the Carb Fact Detective. One person reads out a carbohydrate-related fact from the video transcript, and the other person tries to guess the missing word or phrase. For example, "Fact number one, carbohydrates are a type of nutrient that our bodies use to give us ______." The other person fills in the blank with "energy." Keep score and see who can guess the most facts correctly. Have fun learning together!
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1 take away from the video for your child
"Balanced diets with a variety of carbohydrates like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are important for maintaining good health."