In the past few weeks some dire reports have come from the medical world about childhood obesity. One study found a worrisome increase in fatty liver syndrome in children, the other found overweight children sometimes have enlarged hearts. You may have heard the most dire of the warnings: this generation may be the first generation to have a lower average life span than their parents. The primary reason? Obesity.

As the news grows more concerning, local schools, doctors, and communities have begun to push for changes to help kids get fit again. As a parent, you can be a big part in changing how your child views food and exercise - your behavior will have a major influence on your child's behavior.

One interesting answer to the "family influence" problem is a program called Wellspring Family Camp. This camp focuses on younger children - and trying to catch the bad habits early - as well as on the family unit as a whole. Their motto could be, "The family that loses together, wins together!"

The summer program, located next to Clear Lake in Michigan's upper peninsula, allows kids as young as 5 years old to attend - with a parent or grandparent. The two-week camping program offers all types of fun recreational activities, so you aren't just "dieting." To learn more about Wellspring Family Camp, visit their website.