Child Lifestyles
More adults say healthcare providers are recommending certain lifestyle changes for their children. Eating more fruits and vegetables and getting more physical activity are top of the list.
Should eat more fruits/vegetables
2021
22%
2026
29%
Needs more physical activity
2021
11%
2026
17%
Has a doctor, nurse, or other health professional told you in the past 12 months that this child:
- Should each more fruits and vegetables
- Needs more physical activity
- Needs more sleep
- Should reduce stress
Why this matters?
Healthy routines in childhood—such as eating more fruits and vegetables, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep—can help prevent chronic diseases later in life, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. In contrast, chronic stress and poor stress management can contribute to emotional, behavioral, and physical health problems.
Learn more about Upgrade in Schools work to promote healthy eating and active living in regional schools.
Children’s lifestyle habits lay the foundation for lifelong health. Just like adults, children benefit from everyday choices that support their well-being, set them up for optimal learning and development, and reduce the risk of future disease and injury. Parents, caregivers, and the systems that care for and shape children like day cares and schools play a vital role in shaping these habits, from balanced eating and regular physical activity to promoting adequate sleep and helping children manage stress.
Fortunately, some parents in the region report that health care professionals are engaging them in conversations about lifestyle habits that support their children’s health. This includes guidance on nutrition, movement, sleep, and strategies to reduce or manage stress – with notable increases in recommendations for healthy eating and active living since the 2021 survey:
- “Should eat more fruits/vegetables” (22% in 2021 compared to 29% in 2026)
- “Needs more physical activity” (11% in 2021 compared to 17% in 2026)
*See Methods for details on low-income thresholds, methodology, and limitations
The 2026 edition of the Greater Evansville Health Survey is a product of Welborn
in partnership with Diehl Consulting Group and Liz Tharp Consulting. View the survey methodology.