Making Physical Activity A Part Of A Child's Life

Making Physical Activity A Part Of A Child's Life

             Many physical activities fall under more than one type of activity. This makes it possible for your child to do two or even three types of physical activity in one day. Talk with children about physical activity and make sure they understand that everyone needs physical activity. It is an important part of staying healthy, not only for their body, but also for their mind. It's easy to fit each type of activity into your child's schedule – all it takes is being familiar with the Guidelines and finding activities that your child enjoys.

Making Physical Activity A Part Of A Child's Life

Keep Your Child Active:

            As a parent, you can help shape your child's attitudes and behaviors toward physical activity, and knowing these guidelines is a great place to start. Throughout their lives, encourage young people to be physically active for one hour or more each day, with activities ranging from informal, active play to organized sports. Here are some ways you can do this:

1) Set a positive example by leading an active lifestyle yourself.

2) Make physical activity part of your family's daily routine by taking family walks or playing active games together.

3) Give your children equipment that encourages physical activity.

4) Take young people to places where they can be active, such as public parks, community baseball fields or basketball courts.

5) Be positive about the physical activities in which your child participates and encourage them to be interested in new activities.

6) Make physical activity fun.  Fun activities can be anything your child enjoys, either structured or non-structured. Activities can range from team sports or individual sports to recreational activities such as walking, running, skating, bicycling, swimming, playground activities or free-time play.

7) Instead of watching television after dinner, encourage your child to find fun activities to do on their own or with friends and family, such as walking, playing chase or riding bikes.

8) Be safe! Always provide protective equipment such as helmets, wrist pads or knee pads and ensure that activity is age-appropriate.

SOURCE LINK: