With less time and space for safe outdoor activities, and more electronics competing for your child's attention, it's easy for physical play to fall by the wayside. But in today's sedentary culture, encouraging kids' fitness is more important than ever. Try this advice to help even the most reluctant child increase active play time.
First Steps to Kids' Fitness
Remember that fitness and physical play are part of a healthy lifestyle that makes you feel good. Try not to send the message that exercise is an unpleasant chore. These dos and don'ts for fun fitness will help you set a positive tone.
Be a Fitness Role Model
The number-one way to prompt your reluctant child to be more active is to be more active yourself. Take up a new sport, resume a walking or running habit, or resurrect that gym membership you've been ignoring.
Set Kids' Fitness Goals that Motivate
Many kids are motivated by rewards. Work together to come up with a set of goals for each member of the family, then plan some fun (non-food!) prizes, such as active toys you can all enjoy.
- Make Fitness Fun: 10 Top Tips
- Small-Size, Low-Cost, High-Impact Gifts
- Active Toys for the Whole Family
- Active Toys for Preschoolers
- Active Toys for School-Age Kids
Boost Kids' Self-Esteem
If your child is overweight, fitness is more important than ever--but also tougher to encourage. Try this advice to help your child feel more confident about himself and his body.
Find Fitness Activities Kids Love
Maybe your child doesn't enjoy active play because she hasn't yet found the right sport or exercise for her. Check out profiles of youth sports to get a feel for some popular favorites, and don't forget to take advantage of seasonal fun!
