07/15/2025
To help kids stay healthy, it's crucial to incorporate physical activity into their daily routines. Encourage them to engage in a variety of fun, age-appropriate activities, and make it a family affair to set a positive example.
Here's how to get kids moving:
1. Make it Fun and Engaging:
Turn exercise into games: Incorporate play into physical activities to make them enjoyable.
Be a role model: Children are more likely to be active if they see their parents and caregivers being active, too.
Involve friends: Group activities with friends can make physical activity more social and fun.
Use music: Create playlists of favorite songs to make activities more energetic.
Set goals: Small, achievable goals can help kids feel a sense of accomplishment.
2. Integrate Physical Activity into Daily Life:
Walk or bike to school: If possible, encourage walking or biking instead of driving.
Incorporate movement into chores: Have kids help with age-appropriate chores like gardening or cleaning.
Limit screen time: Reduce the amount of time spent on computers, tablets, and television.
Choose active playdates: Instead of sedentary playdates, organize activities like sports or outdoor adventures.
Explore community resources: Utilize parks, playgrounds, pools, and recreation centers.
3. Provide Opportunities and Support:
Offer a variety of activities: Introduce kids to different sports, games, and outdoor activities.
Encourage participation in organized sports: Consider signing them up for sports teams or dance classes.
Praise and encourage: Provide positive reinforcement and encouragement when kids are active.
Make it a family affair: Plan family activities that involve physical activity.
Start slow and gradually increase intensity: If your child is not very active, start with small amounts of activity and gradually increase the duration and intensity.
4. Specific Activities:
For younger children: Tummy time, playing with blocks, dancing, swimming, playground activities, and active games like hide-and-seek.
For older children: Sports, hiking, biking, swimming, dancing, and active video games.
For teens: Gym workouts, sports, and activities that align with their interests.