Everyone knows children need to be physically active in order to be as healthy as possible. Coming up with ways to help your child get more physical activity doesn’t have to be hard. Here we will go over some things that will make the task easier.
The fastest and easiest way to get your child to be more active is to be more active yourself. Find activities you like that require physical exertion, and then bring your child along to enjoy the fun. There are many family friendly physical activities for you to choose from. For example, you could go for a hike with your children. Pick a kid friendly trail, pack a picnic lunch, the camera, and get hiking! Or, in the summer months there is no better activity that swimming. Almost all children love going to the beach or pool, and they will definitely get a workout if they play pool volleyball or other water games.
If your child hasn’t been getting any physical activity you may want to start out with something as simple as going on evening walks. Make it an after dinner activity that the whole family partakes in. Along with getting some physical activity in, you can use the time to talk about your child’s day.
Children that have very outgoing personalities may benefit from joining a team sport such as softball or soccer. Just make sure you have the time to commit to taking them to games before letting them sign up, because being consistent is very important in whatever activity they engage.
Encouraging your children to get into sports at school is another idea. Most schools have football, basketball and track teams. Your child could pick the one they like best and join. Also, if their school has a physical education class, have them take it even if it’s not required. The extra activity will do them good.
If you have small children then playing tag in the back yard would be a way to get them physically active. Even ring around the rosy offers some exercise for small children. It doesn’t have to be a real, structured game with young children, just running and playing outside will be enough.
These are just some suggestions to get your started helping your child become more physically active. Whether you chose something named here, or another activity doesn’t matter as long as the ultimate goal of a healthy, more physically active child is achieved. Helping your child develop a love for exercise early will benefit them throughout their lives.