Kids love to imitate their parents, right? Yes, says a new study that followed four to eight year olds and found that a parent's motivation for leading a healthy lifestyle could influence the way their children think. Parents who find enjoyment in eating and living healthfully pass on a more balanced approach to food and exercise to their kids.

Perhaps that’s part of the reason why Colorado is the leanest state in the U.S. But according to the Centers for Disease Control, we’re 29th in childhood obesity, so something’s getting lost between the generations. Want to make sure your kiddos get the tools they need? Here are three ways to inspire your little ones.

Sticky Fingers Cooking 

Why: Children get to explore new food, and the Sticky Fingers crew has found that kids who cook are more likely to try dishes they'd normally shy away from. 

Avid4 Adventure

Why: Avid4's mission is to inspire kids to love the outdoors through mountain biking, kayaking, rock climbing, survival school, and multi-sport camps. 

Stir It Up Cooking School

Why: Beyond learning how to cook, the school also has a backyard garden so kids can pick fresh ingredients.

—Image courtesy of Shutterstock