When planning to do something new—tackling a project at work, trying a new recipe for the family, getting into a regular fitness routine—sometimes just committing to getting started helps you on your way to a routine and finishing the task. That great big goal comes down to size when you stop procrastinating and … start!

Overcoming procrastination is half the battle when considering a more healthy, active lifestyle. Our organization is a member of the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation and we support their Together Counts™ program. There are free tools, and tips for families and lesson plans for teachers, all aimed at helping children on a path toward good health.

Here are three idea starters to get going!

1. Start by learning about energy balance—balancing calories you consume through food and beverages, with calories you burn through exercise and activities.
2. Get your family When thinking about meals for the week, involve the kids and allow them to choose a few favorite dishes each week. Get them into the kitchen helping to prepare and serve the meal. Families who share meals together tend to be more in touch with each other’s goals and stick to them.
3. Read the Together Counts blog for inspiration and to sustain the momentum at home.

Do you know a school in need of a new playground? It’s easy to enter to win The Healthy Playground Makeover Sweepstakes. Visit TogetherCounts.com and enter on behalf of a local pre-school or elementary school in your area. Two grand prizes will be awarded and include a new playground and a $30,000 grant.