Family Fitness: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Build Gross Motor Skills
Even preschoolers need lots of opportunities for physical activity, both for good health and for skill-building. At this age, kids are busy developing gross motor skills—learning to use the large muscles in their legs, arms, and trunk to run, jump, throw, catch, and kick. Try these playful physical activities to help build your child's gross motor skills.
Even preschoolers need lots of opportunities for physical activity, both for good health and for skill-building. At this age, kids are busy developing gross motor skills—learning to use the large muscles in their legs, arms, and trunk to run, jump, throw, catch, and kick. Try these playful physical activities to help build your child's gross motor skills.
12 Rainy Day Activites
Lists 12 rainy day activities to keep kids busy and active indoors and outdoors. Includes suggestions for fitness activities, family games, and inexpensive outings. Suitable for children of all ages.
Lists 12 rainy day activities to keep kids busy and active indoors and outdoors. Includes suggestions for fitness activities, family games, and inexpensive outings. Suitable for children of all ages.
Halloween Party Games
Describes 8 active Halloween-themed kids' party games, suitable for all ages and for large or small groups. These fun activities encourage physical activity and fun with a Halloween theme.
Describes 8 active Halloween-themed kids' party games, suitable for all ages and for large or small groups. These fun activities encourage physical activity and fun with a Halloween theme.
Fitness Vocab: Locomotor Skill
Definition of the phrase "locomotor skills" as it relates to family fitness, child development, and physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the phrase "locomotor skills" as it relates to family fitness, child development, and physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Indoor Party Games
Indoor party games that get kids moving are a boon for guests, hosts, and guests' parents too! These indoor party games require little to no equipment, just a little space and a lot of enthusiasm.
Indoor party games that get kids moving are a boon for guests, hosts, and guests' parents too! These indoor party games require little to no equipment, just a little space and a lot of enthusiasm.
Active Toys for Little Kids
Suggests active toys for children (toddlers and preschoolers). These toys encourage physical activity and movement for small children and many can be used indoors or outdoors.
Suggests active toys for children (toddlers and preschoolers). These toys encourage physical activity and movement for small children and many can be used indoors or outdoors.
Active Toys for the Family
Make these top toys a part of your family's gift-giving this year. These picks include classic and new games, toys low-tech and high, and gear for outdoors and inside. They appeal to preschoolers, pre-teens, and parents alike.
Make these top toys a part of your family's gift-giving this year. These picks include classic and new games, toys low-tech and high, and gear for outdoors and inside. They appeal to preschoolers, pre-teens, and parents alike.
Fitness for School-Aged Kids
Get the latest facts and recommendations on physical activities and fitness for school-age children, both at home and at school. Find suggestions for sports and other physical activities, plus ways to encourage physical play and movement every day.
Get the latest facts and recommendations on physical activities and fitness for school-age children, both at home and at school. Find suggestions for sports and other physical activities, plus ways to encourage physical play and movement every day.
Holiday Fitness for Families
Advice on holiday fitness for families with kids. Includes ways to add exercise to shopping and to holiday traditions such as parties and viewing holiday decorations.
Advice on holiday fitness for families with kids. Includes ways to add exercise to shopping and to holiday traditions such as parties and viewing holiday decorations.
Top Outdoor Toys
Outdoor toys keep kids busy and active on long summer days. Try these top picks for this summer's best outdoor toys.
Outdoor toys keep kids busy and active on long summer days. Try these top picks for this summer's best outdoor toys.
Active Toys for School-Agers
Suggests 12 active toys for school-age children for gifts. These toys encourage physical activity and movement for kids and include indoor/outdoor toys, sports gear, and multi-player games.
Suggests 12 active toys for school-age children for gifts. These toys encourage physical activity and movement for kids and include indoor/outdoor toys, sports gear, and multi-player games.
Best Ride-On Toys
Find hot new ride-on toys for little kids and big kids too, from the latest Razor scooter to a sweet bumblebee buggy for tiny tots.
Find hot new ride-on toys for little kids and big kids too, from the latest Razor scooter to a sweet bumblebee buggy for tiny tots.
Active Thanksgiving Fun
Make your Thanksgiving fun by going beyond TV football and cornucopia crafts. Burn some calories with these kid-friendly physical activities that are easily adaptable for toddlers, teens, and seniors too.
Make your Thanksgiving fun by going beyond TV football and cornucopia crafts. Burn some calories with these kid-friendly physical activities that are easily adaptable for toddlers, teens, and seniors too.
Review: V-Tech V-Motion
Review of V-Tech's V-Motion Active Learning System, which uses a motion-sensitive controller to allow small children to play learning games while staying active. Uses VSmile cartridges and can link to other V-Tech games via a V.Link jump drive.
Review of V-Tech's V-Motion Active Learning System, which uses a motion-sensitive controller to allow small children to play learning games while staying active. Uses VSmile cartridges and can link to other V-Tech games via a V.Link jump drive.
5 Activities to Do With Kids
List five simple activities families can do together to promote active play, movement, fitness, and exercise. Most require little to no equipment or advance preparation and can be done indoors or outside. Suitable for a variety of ages and physical abilities.
List five simple activities families can do together to promote active play, movement, fitness, and exercise. Most require little to no equipment or advance preparation and can be done indoors or outside. Suitable for a variety of ages and physical abilities.
Fitness Vocabulary Term: Fats
Definition of the term "fats" as it relates to family fitness, nutrition, and physical health for kids and adults.
Definition of the term "fats" as it relates to family fitness, nutrition, and physical health for kids and adults.
Outdoor Activities for Kids
Outdoor activities for kids keep them busy and burning energy for hours at a time. Try these tips for outdoor exercise and kids outdoor play in your backyard, park, or playing field.
Outdoor activities for kids keep them busy and burning energy for hours at a time. Try these tips for outdoor exercise and kids outdoor play in your backyard, park, or playing field.
Active Party Games
Help kids burn off energy and excitement with party games that get them active and moving. These games work for birthday parties and other kids' events, indoors and outdoors.
Help kids burn off energy and excitement with party games that get them active and moving. These games work for birthday parties and other kids' events, indoors and outdoors.
Vocab: Manipulative Skills
Definition of the phrase "manipulative skills" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the phrase "manipulative skills" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Best Sports for Kids
When it comes to extracurricular activities, you really can't beat sports for kids. Joining a sports team helps your child stay active, practice and learn sportsmanship, improve social skills and concentration, and develop a hobby he can enjoy for life.
When it comes to extracurricular activities, you really can't beat sports for kids. Joining a sports team helps your child stay active, practice and learn sportsmanship, improve social skills and concentration, and develop a hobby he can enjoy for life.
Fitness for Preschoolers
Preschoolers need just as much daily physical activity as older kids and adults do (60 minutes a day). Lists fitness recommendations for young children and describes how they learn motor skills. Suggests physical games and activities to do with small children.
Preschoolers need just as much daily physical activity as older kids and adults do (60 minutes a day). Lists fitness recommendations for young children and describes how they learn motor skills. Suggests physical games and activities to do with small children.
Healthy Half-Time Snacks
Learn the best healthy half-time snacks for kids, plus what to eat before and after a game. Kids' nutritional needs are different in the hours before and after physical activity, so provide pre-game, post-game, and half-time snacks that give young athletes the nutrients they need.
Learn the best healthy half-time snacks for kids, plus what to eat before and after a game. Kids' nutritional needs are different in the hours before and after physical activity, so provide pre-game, post-game, and half-time snacks that give young athletes the nutrients they need.
Teen & Tween Fitness
Describes particular benefits of exercise for teenagers and preadolescents. Lists reasons kids this age may not get enough physical activity. Offers suggestions for types of sports and athletic pursuits teens and tweens might enjoy and ways to encourage participation.
Describes particular benefits of exercise for teenagers and preadolescents. Lists reasons kids this age may not get enough physical activity. Offers suggestions for types of sports and athletic pursuits teens and tweens might enjoy and ways to encourage participation.
Preschool Outdoor Toys
Encourage active play with preschool outdoor toys, especially for young children. Help preschoolers enjoy outside play time with safe, fun, age-appropriate outdoor toys.
Encourage active play with preschool outdoor toys, especially for young children. Help preschoolers enjoy outside play time with safe, fun, age-appropriate outdoor toys.
Family Winter Activities
When cold, snowy, icy weather comes your way, resist the urge to hide inside! Winter offers lots of opportunities for fun family fitness, so pull on those mittens and get outdoors. Find information on several winter activities that are fun for kids and families to do together.
When cold, snowy, icy weather comes your way, resist the urge to hide inside! Winter offers lots of opportunities for fun family fitness, so pull on those mittens and get outdoors. Find information on several winter activities that are fun for kids and families to do together.
Homemade Fitness Equipment
Use everyday household items to make inexpensive or free homemade fitness equipment for kids an adults. Suggests simple ways to make fitness equipment and ways to use it.
Use everyday household items to make inexpensive or free homemade fitness equipment for kids an adults. Suggests simple ways to make fitness equipment and ways to use it.
Puberty, Boys, and Fitness
During puberty, boys may become more athletic thanks to added muscle and height. Even overweight boys may be inspired to exercise more.
During puberty, boys may become more athletic thanks to added muscle and height. Even overweight boys may be inspired to exercise more.
Teach Kids How to Ride a Bike
Describes three popular methods to teach a child how to ride a bike: using training wheels, an undersized bike, or a full-sized bike with a parent running alongside.
Describes three popular methods to teach a child how to ride a bike: using training wheels, an undersized bike, or a full-sized bike with a parent running alongside.
Outdoor Party Games
Keep guests busy at your next kids' birthday party: Turn them loose outside, then gather them for these active, outdoor party games.
Keep guests busy at your next kids' birthday party: Turn them loose outside, then gather them for these active, outdoor party games.
Have a Ball
Playing with balls helps kids build motor skills, plus it's fun. Find out what balls are best for kids at each age and stage, plus games to play with balls.
Playing with balls helps kids build motor skills, plus it's fun. Find out what balls are best for kids at each age and stage, plus games to play with balls.
Healthy Snacks for Kids
Snacks can make up a significant portion of your child's calories, so stock up on healthy snacks for kids. Use snacks to boost nutrition and energy to fuel your child's body without unnecessary sugar or fat.
Snacks can make up a significant portion of your child's calories, so stock up on healthy snacks for kids. Use snacks to boost nutrition and energy to fuel your child's body without unnecessary sugar or fat.
Way Cool Water Toys
Keep kids cool, busy, and active on hot summer days with fun water toys. These work in the backyard, pool, lake, or ocean for lots of fun, wet, warm-weather play.
Keep kids cool, busy, and active on hot summer days with fun water toys. These work in the backyard, pool, lake, or ocean for lots of fun, wet, warm-weather play.
Teach Sportsmanship
With kids starting soccer at 3 and swim team at 5, teaching sportsmanship is more important than ever. Forty million kids are playing youth sports today. This means a greater emphasis on winning, but also offers an opportunity to teach sportsmanship early and often. The best time to instill values is when kids are younger.
With kids starting soccer at 3 and swim team at 5, teaching sportsmanship is more important than ever. Forty million kids are playing youth sports today. This means a greater emphasis on winning, but also offers an opportunity to teach sportsmanship early and often. The best time to instill values is when kids are younger.
Walking Games for Kids
Keep whines away during a hike or walk with kids by playing walking games. These easy activities help children pass the time when you are taking a family hike or simply walking to school or the playground.
Keep whines away during a hike or walk with kids by playing walking games. These easy activities help children pass the time when you are taking a family hike or simply walking to school or the playground.
Profile: Kids' Soccer
Kids' soccer is an ideal team sport for beginners, with lots of potential for learning, fitness, and development. Find the basics on this popular kids' sport, from costs to risks to finding a kids' soccer program in your area.
Kids' soccer is an ideal team sport for beginners, with lots of potential for learning, fitness, and development. Find the basics on this popular kids' sport, from costs to risks to finding a kids' soccer program in your area.
Child Obesity and Overweight
Defines diagnosis of child obesity. Explains how doctors determine whether children are overweight using BMI (body mass index) and other measurements and tests. Lists lifestyle questions a medical professional may ask to determine whether children are too sedentary or get sufficient physical activity and good nutrition.
Defines diagnosis of child obesity. Explains how doctors determine whether children are overweight using BMI (body mass index) and other measurements and tests. Lists lifestyle questions a medical professional may ask to determine whether children are too sedentary or get sufficient physical activity and good nutrition.
Profile: Ice Hockey
The slam-bang sport of kids ice hockey isn't just for boys, or big kids either. Find the basics on this popular youth sport, from costs (yes, they can be high) to risks to finding a kids' ice hockey program in your area.
The slam-bang sport of kids ice hockey isn't just for boys, or big kids either. Find the basics on this popular youth sport, from costs (yes, they can be high) to risks to finding a kids' ice hockey program in your area.
Profile: Ice Skating
Getting kids started in ice skating can open the door to several other sports as well as a recreational sport that can be enjoyed for a lifetime. Find the basics on kids' ice skating, from when lessons can start to how to find a rink or program in your area.
Getting kids started in ice skating can open the door to several other sports as well as a recreational sport that can be enjoyed for a lifetime. Find the basics on kids' ice skating, from when lessons can start to how to find a rink or program in your area.
Winter Safety
Winter safety advice from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), discussing how to keep kids safe during the winter months. Includes tips on staying warm and preventing injuries while skating, sledding, skiing, and snowboarding.
Winter safety advice from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), discussing how to keep kids safe during the winter months. Includes tips on staying warm and preventing injuries while skating, sledding, skiing, and snowboarding.
8 Water Play Ideas
Motivate kids to get moving with water play, water games, and water activities that require little to no equipment or set-up. Play in the backyard with a garden hose or wash the car. Visit a local fountain or creek.
Motivate kids to get moving with water play, water games, and water activities that require little to no equipment or set-up. Play in the backyard with a garden hose or wash the car. Visit a local fountain or creek.
Stay Hydrated
Children need adequate fluids every day to stay healthy, and the best beverages for them are water, low-fat milk, and 100% fruit juice.
Children need adequate fluids every day to stay healthy, and the best beverages for them are water, low-fat milk, and 100% fruit juice.
Cooperative Party Games
No winners or losers, only lots of good, clean, active fun with these birthday party games that get kids moving, but not competing with each other.
No winners or losers, only lots of good, clean, active fun with these birthday party games that get kids moving, but not competing with each other.
Profile: Kids' Baseball
Baseball and its close cousin softball are all-American classics and enjoyed by thousands of kids. Is your child eager to play Little League or join another youth baseball team? Find out more about this sport.
Baseball and its close cousin softball are all-American classics and enjoyed by thousands of kids. Is your child eager to play Little League or join another youth baseball team? Find out more about this sport.
10 Lifestyle Changes
Lists 10 tips for kids' weight loss. Includes suggested ways for parents to help overweight kids lose weight, improve nutrition and increase amount of physical activity. Recommends steps to encourage children to enjoy fitness and change a sedentary lifestyle.
Lists 10 tips for kids' weight loss. Includes suggested ways for parents to help overweight kids lose weight, improve nutrition and increase amount of physical activity. Recommends steps to encourage children to enjoy fitness and change a sedentary lifestyle.
Teach Activity
Exercise for kids is important, and it's critical to teach kids about being active early in life. Find ways to do that, and what the benefits are for both the kids and the parents; plus three easy activities to do anytime. Includes advice from movement specialist Rae Pica.
Exercise for kids is important, and it's critical to teach kids about being active early in life. Find ways to do that, and what the benefits are for both the kids and the parents; plus three easy activities to do anytime. Includes advice from movement specialist Rae Pica.
Too Much TV? Set Screen Limits
Watching too much TV (or sitting for too long in front of a computer or video game) is an easy trap for kids and families to fall into, and a dangerous one. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to obesity, high blood pressure, and other health problems. Help kids get more physical activity in their life by limiting their screen time. Try these suggestions and guidelines.
Watching too much TV (or sitting for too long in front of a computer or video game) is an easy trap for kids and families to fall into, and a dangerous one. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to obesity, high blood pressure, and other health problems. Help kids get more physical activity in their life by limiting their screen time. Try these suggestions and guidelines.
Cure Cabin Fever
Cool your kids' case of cabin fever with 9 suggestions for active, indoor play.
Cool your kids' case of cabin fever with 9 suggestions for active, indoor play.
Kids' Gymnastics
For many kids, gymnastics has big appeal: Lots of running, jumping, and cool equipment to play on. Is kids gymnastics the right sport for your child? Get the facts on this youth sport, from how much it costs to how to find a team to what your child might learn.
For many kids, gymnastics has big appeal: Lots of running, jumping, and cool equipment to play on. Is kids gymnastics the right sport for your child? Get the facts on this youth sport, from how much it costs to how to find a team to what your child might learn.
Best Kids Toys for Active Play
Whatever you're searching and shopping for--a gift for a toddler or a teen, or for a birthday or a bar mitzvah--look for a toy that promotes physical fitness and play. Sometimes a new game or toy is just the push a child needs to really get active. These lists contain the best of the best kids' toys for active play and fitness.
Whatever you're searching and shopping for--a gift for a toddler or a teen, or for a birthday or a bar mitzvah--look for a toy that promotes physical fitness and play. Sometimes a new game or toy is just the push a child needs to really get active. These lists contain the best of the best kids' toys for active play and fitness.
Summer Safety for Families
Outdoor play helps kids get the physical activity they need every day, plus it's fun! But it brings some hazards too. Know summer safety rules to lower the risk of injuries and illness at the swimming pool, playground, pool, sports playing field and on bike trails.
Outdoor play helps kids get the physical activity they need every day, plus it's fun! But it brings some hazards too. Know summer safety rules to lower the risk of injuries and illness at the swimming pool, playground, pool, sports playing field and on bike trails.
Indoor Toys for Active Play
Don't let bad weather or other barriers to outdoor play keep your kids slumped on the sofa. Try one of these active, indoor toys and games designed to get children moving, learning, and laughing. These toys are best for kids ages 3 to 8.
Don't let bad weather or other barriers to outdoor play keep your kids slumped on the sofa. Try one of these active, indoor toys and games designed to get children moving, learning, and laughing. These toys are best for kids ages 3 to 8.
Forget Exercise, Have Fun!
Lists ways to encourage active kids and show kids that physical activity is fun. Includes suggestions for modeling fitness and encouraging exercise. Also lists phrases to use when praising kids' fitness efforts.
Lists ways to encourage active kids and show kids that physical activity is fun. Includes suggestions for modeling fitness and encouraging exercise. Also lists phrases to use when praising kids' fitness efforts.
Vocab: Cardiorespiratory
Definition of the term "cardiorespiratory endurance" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the term "cardiorespiratory endurance" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Profile: Kids Swimming
Kids swimming is a great workout and offers both an individual and team experience. Swimming is an important lifelong skill. Find the basics on this popular sport for kids, from costs to risks to finding a swim team or club in your area.
Kids swimming is a great workout and offers both an individual and team experience. Swimming is an important lifelong skill. Find the basics on this popular sport for kids, from costs to risks to finding a swim team or club in your area.
Exercise With Children
Exercise with children by turning playtime into a workout, and vice versa. Find out how to modify physical fitness activities for kids so that families can exercise together.
Exercise with children by turning playtime into a workout, and vice versa. Find out how to modify physical fitness activities for kids so that families can exercise together.
Fitness During Puberty
Kids' bodies (and brains) change rapidly during puberty, which can quickly lead to feelings of awkwardness or more serious body image issues. Frequent physical activity may help tweens and teens feel more in control of their changing bodies. Exercise can also help kids manage stress and maintain their weight. But to make sure your child feels comfortable with his body and with fitness, it's important to lay a strong foundation well before the teen years.
Kids' bodies (and brains) change rapidly during puberty, which can quickly lead to feelings of awkwardness or more serious body image issues. Frequent physical activity may help tweens and teens feel more in control of their changing bodies. Exercise can also help kids manage stress and maintain their weight. But to make sure your child feels comfortable with his body and with fitness, it's important to lay a strong foundation well before the teen years.
Water Bottle Hand Weights
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Product Review - Polar FA20
Guide review of the Polar FA20 activity computer/wristwatch. This pedometer alternative is an easy-to-use way to record, and encourage, everyday physical activity along with fitness training.
Guide review of the Polar FA20 activity computer/wristwatch. This pedometer alternative is an easy-to-use way to record, and encourage, everyday physical activity along with fitness training.
Recycled Bottle Bowling
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Am I Fat?
It's not unusual for adolescents to wonder, "Am I fat?" Try these confidence-boosting tips from experts and parents to help build your tween or tween's body image during puberty. Most apply to both girls and boys who worry, "Am I fat?"
It's not unusual for adolescents to wonder, "Am I fat?" Try these confidence-boosting tips from experts and parents to help build your tween or tween's body image during puberty. Most apply to both girls and boys who worry, "Am I fat?"
Prevent Youth Sports Injuries
Kids can suffer from many kinds of youth sports injuries, including sprains, broken bones, concussions, and heat stroke. Lists risks of physical activities, which youth sports cause the most injuries, and how to prevent and treat the most common injuries.
Kids can suffer from many kinds of youth sports injuries, including sprains, broken bones, concussions, and heat stroke. Lists risks of physical activities, which youth sports cause the most injuries, and how to prevent and treat the most common injuries.
Healthy Protein Snacks
If kids are clamoring for something to eat, fill them up with healthy protein snacks. Foods containing protein are more filling than starches and usually contain more nutrients. Try these ideas for healthy protein snacks.
If kids are clamoring for something to eat, fill them up with healthy protein snacks. Foods containing protein are more filling than starches and usually contain more nutrients. Try these ideas for healthy protein snacks.
Make Fitness Fun - 10 Top Tips
It's important for everyone in your family to get plenty of physical activity. But the lure of the couch can be strong. Sometimes, to make fitness fun for everyone, you need to kick it up a notch. Try one of these motivators.
It's important for everyone in your family to get plenty of physical activity. But the lure of the couch can be strong. Sometimes, to make fitness fun for everyone, you need to kick it up a notch. Try one of these motivators.
But I Hate Gym!
It's a common complaint--kids often say they hate gym class. Here is a three-step method for changing their minds and helping them love, or at least tolerate, PE.
It's a common complaint--kids often say they hate gym class. Here is a three-step method for changing their minds and helping them love, or at least tolerate, PE.
Inexpensive Active Toys
Fill your child's stocking with these inexpensive active toys--small, low-cost goodies that promote exercise, fitness, and physical activity for kids of all ages.
Fill your child's stocking with these inexpensive active toys--small, low-cost goodies that promote exercise, fitness, and physical activity for kids of all ages.
Outdoor Play Toys
Keep kids busy in warmer weather with outdoor play toys that encourage lots of physical activity. Selections include preschool outdoor toys, water play toys and ride-on toys.
Keep kids busy in warmer weather with outdoor play toys that encourage lots of physical activity. Selections include preschool outdoor toys, water play toys and ride-on toys.
Get Out and Play Places
Plan a family outing that offers plenty of physical activity. This list of get out, get going destinations can work for a rainy day, as a reward for a job well done or a friendly competition, or a way to celebrate someone's birthday or other special day. But you don't need any particular reason to get out and play together. Go have fun!
Plan a family outing that offers plenty of physical activity. This list of get out, get going destinations can work for a rainy day, as a reward for a job well done or a friendly competition, or a way to celebrate someone's birthday or other special day. But you don't need any particular reason to get out and play together. Go have fun!
Review - Curious George Zoo
Review of a board game for kids ages 4-8 starring Curious George. Kids use a walkie-talkie (included) to help George care for zoo animals and even play hide-and-seek.
Review of a board game for kids ages 4-8 starring Curious George. Kids use a walkie-talkie (included) to help George care for zoo animals and even play hide-and-seek.
Healthy Halloween Treats
Save the candy for trick-or-treating and serve healthy Halloween treats at your Halloween party. Try these simple, kid-friendly ideas for healthy Halloween treats.
Save the candy for trick-or-treating and serve healthy Halloween treats at your Halloween party. Try these simple, kid-friendly ideas for healthy Halloween treats.
Balloon Volleyball for Two
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Bed Sheet Soccer Goal
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Balance Beam as a Group Game
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Set Up a Treasure Hunt Game
Kids are guaranteed to move, and giggle, when you send them on a search for clues in a treasure hunt game. Try it for a party, special occasion, or just a rainy day. Older kids can even be enlisted to set up a treasure hunt game for littler siblings or cousins.
Kids are guaranteed to move, and giggle, when you send them on a search for clues in a treasure hunt game. Try it for a party, special occasion, or just a rainy day. Older kids can even be enlisted to set up a treasure hunt game for littler siblings or cousins.
Solo Volleyball Stretch
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Deal With a Quitter
Are you afraid your child is a quitter? If your child plays sports, sooner or later you'll deal with a declaration of "I quit!" But before you say no, fearing your child will be branded a quitter for life, hear him out, and try to understand his motives.
Are you afraid your child is a quitter? If your child plays sports, sooner or later you'll deal with a declaration of "I quit!" But before you say no, fearing your child will be branded a quitter for life, hear him out, and try to understand his motives.
Ribbon Limbo Game
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Review - 30-Day Shred DVD
Guide review of the popular fitness DVD, Jillian Michaels' 30-Day Shred. Michaels is a celebrity trainer who helps contestants on NBC's The Biggest Loser drop pounds fast. Here she translates those intense sessions into a short workout you can do at home: the 30-Day Shred.
Guide review of the popular fitness DVD, Jillian Michaels' 30-Day Shred. Michaels is a celebrity trainer who helps contestants on NBC's The Biggest Loser drop pounds fast. Here she translates those intense sessions into a short workout you can do at home: the 30-Day Shred.
Youth Sports: Football
Are you ready for some kids football (American-style football)? Find out if the classic fall sport of football is right for your child and your family. In addition to tackle football kids can also choose non-contact or flag football
Are you ready for some kids football (American-style football)? Find out if the classic fall sport of football is right for your child and your family. In addition to tackle football kids can also choose non-contact or flag football
Exercise at Home in 10 Minutes
For many busy parents, the only way to fit in fitness is to exercise at home. Carve out 10 minutes three times a day to exercise at home and you will reap real health benefits.
For many busy parents, the only way to fit in fitness is to exercise at home. Carve out 10 minutes three times a day to exercise at home and you will reap real health benefits.
Fitness for Reluctant Kids
Kids' fitness is critically important, but it can be hard for parents to encourage fitness in today's sedentary culture. Find resources and advice for encouraging a reluctant child to be more physically active.
Kids' fitness is critically important, but it can be hard for parents to encourage fitness in today's sedentary culture. Find resources and advice for encouraging a reluctant child to be more physically active.
Soda Bottle Baseball Bat
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Homemade Stretching Game
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Ice Skate Sharpening Tips
Ice skate sharpening can be confusing (when? where? how often?), so here's a cheat sheet. If your child figure skates or plays ice hockey, be ready for the winter sports season with sharpened skates.
Ice skate sharpening can be confusing (when? where? how often?), so here's a cheat sheet. If your child figure skates or plays ice hockey, be ready for the winter sports season with sharpened skates.
Healthy Snacks to Go
Be ready for those after-school or in-the-car munchies: Stock up on healthy snacks to go. These packable, portable snacks provide good nutrition and a burst of energy for busy kids and parents.
Be ready for those after-school or in-the-car munchies: Stock up on healthy snacks to go. These packable, portable snacks provide good nutrition and a burst of energy for busy kids and parents.
Soup Can Hand Weights
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Balance Beam
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Girls, Puberty, and Fitness
For tween girls, puberty can be a trying time. Those who develop early may feel ashamed of their new curves and status as sexual beings. Those who develop later than their peers feel left behind. Weight gain associated with puberty is normal, but can leave girls worrying, "Am I fat?"
For tween girls, puberty can be a trying time. Those who develop early may feel ashamed of their new curves and status as sexual beings. Those who develop later than their peers feel left behind. Weight gain associated with puberty is normal, but can leave girls worrying, "Am I fat?"
Create a Fitness Challenge
To motivate your family to adopt a healthier lifestyle, create a fitness challenge to do together. Find step-by-step instructions for setting up your challenge and achieving your goal.
To motivate your family to adopt a healthier lifestyle, create a fitness challenge to do together. Find step-by-step instructions for setting up your challenge and achieving your goal.
Youth Sports: Basketball
Will youth basketball be a hoop dream for your child? This indoor/outdoor, co-ed, pick-up at the park or high-stakes in the gym game can be fun for kids of all ages and abilities—whether they are tall, short, or somewhere in between.
Will youth basketball be a hoop dream for your child? This indoor/outdoor, co-ed, pick-up at the park or high-stakes in the gym game can be fun for kids of all ages and abilities—whether they are tall, short, or somewhere in between.
First Family Fitness
The Obama fitness routine is legendary. President Barack Obama and his family famously make fitness a priority, rising early in the morning to fit in a gym workout nearly every day. Even the First Grandma, Marian Robinson, is a former track and field star.
The Obama fitness routine is legendary. President Barack Obama and his family famously make fitness a priority, rising early in the morning to fit in a gym workout nearly every day. Even the First Grandma, Marian Robinson, is a former track and field star.
Detergent Jug Catch
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Dealing with Disappointment
Dealing with disappointment in sports is an opportunity for kids to learn character traits like resilience, determination, and good sportsmanship.
Dealing with disappointment in sports is an opportunity for kids to learn character traits like resilience, determination, and good sportsmanship.
Self Esteem for Obese Kids
Self esteem can plummet as weight rises in overweight children. Helping an overweight or obese child lose weight safely and sensitively is important. Find advice on self-esteem help in overweight or obese children and when to seek help from professionals such as pediatricians, nutritionists, therapists, psychologists, or social workers.
Self esteem can plummet as weight rises in overweight children. Helping an overweight or obese child lose weight safely and sensitively is important. Find advice on self-esteem help in overweight or obese children and when to seek help from professionals such as pediatricians, nutritionists, therapists, psychologists, or social workers.
Sun Safety for Kids
These sun safety tips for families from the American Academy of Pediatrics help you keep your child safe while he plays outside in the sun.
These sun safety tips for families from the American Academy of Pediatrics help you keep your child safe while he plays outside in the sun.
Detergent Jug Scoop
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Nintendo Wii Fit
Review of Nintendo Wii Fit game for the Nintendo Wii system.
Review of Nintendo Wii Fit game for the Nintendo Wii system.
How to Talk With a Coach
Is your child facing problems on the playing field? Talk to the coach to help resolve problems and help your child succeed in youth sports.
Is your child facing problems on the playing field? Talk to the coach to help resolve problems and help your child succeed in youth sports.
Choosing Kids' Sports Programs
Learn how to find the best kids sports program for your child. Choose a program that will keep him engaged, happy, and active.
Learn how to find the best kids sports program for your child. Choose a program that will keep him engaged, happy, and active.
What to Say After a Game
Win or lose, boost your child's self-esteem with supportive comments and questions after games, races, and other sporting events.
Win or lose, boost your child's self-esteem with supportive comments and questions after games, races, and other sporting events.
Bed Sheet Parachute
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Fit, Fun Fall Activities
Autumn brings new opportunities for fall activities that combine physical fitness, family fun, and outdoor excursions. Get out and get moving in the crisp fall air with these ideas for hiking, raking, football, and more fall activities.
Autumn brings new opportunities for fall activities that combine physical fitness, family fun, and outdoor excursions. Get out and get moving in the crisp fall air with these ideas for hiking, raking, football, and more fall activities.
Indoor Soccer Goal
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Tape Targets
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Road Safety for Kids
If you're a runner, you probably know and follow safety rules. And if your child bicycles, you require him to follow bike safety rules too. But what about road safety for kids and parents traveling together? If you're running and your child is biking, how do you stay together and stay safe on the road too?
If you're a runner, you probably know and follow safety rules. And if your child bicycles, you require him to follow bike safety rules too. But what about road safety for kids and parents traveling together? If you're running and your child is biking, how do you stay together and stay safe on the road too?
Use an Athletic Mouthguard
Reduce the risk of injury to the head, neck, jaw, teeth, and mouth by making sure your child has an athletic mouthguard—and wears it regularly.
Reduce the risk of injury to the head, neck, jaw, teeth, and mouth by making sure your child has an athletic mouthguard—and wears it regularly.
Ribbon Limbo Lineup
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Use recyclables and household items to make your own kids fitness equipment. These low- to no-cost active toys are simple to create and fun to play with.
Kids' Bike Safety Tips
For kids, bike safety can be an afterthought. But parents need to make safety rules and enforce them to reduce the risk of falls and other injuries. Know the best kids' bike safety rules.
For kids, bike safety can be an afterthought. But parents need to make safety rules and enforce them to reduce the risk of falls and other injuries. Know the best kids' bike safety rules.
New Year's Resolutions
Suggested New Year's resolutions about fitness and health for kids, teens, adults, and families. Find simple, manageable New Year's resolutions for improving your health and increasing your activity level.
Suggested New Year's resolutions about fitness and health for kids, teens, adults, and families. Find simple, manageable New Year's resolutions for improving your health and increasing your activity level.
Road Trip Games
Go beyond 20 Questions and the License Plate Game. Sometimes you need road trip games that get kids up and moving, whether at a rest stop, a gas station, or a local park or campground. These simple ideas help the whole family burn energy and blow off steam before hitting the road again.
Go beyond 20 Questions and the License Plate Game. Sometimes you need road trip games that get kids up and moving, whether at a rest stop, a gas station, or a local park or campground. These simple ideas help the whole family burn energy and blow off steam before hitting the road again.
Swimming Pool Checklist
Use this swimming pool checklist to keep your pool bag stocked with essentials and ready for a trip to the pool at a moment's notice.
Use this swimming pool checklist to keep your pool bag stocked with essentials and ready for a trip to the pool at a moment's notice.
Healthy Snack Ideas
When your child craves a sweet or salty treat, try these healthy snack ideas that satisfy and nourish.
When your child craves a sweet or salty treat, try these healthy snack ideas that satisfy and nourish.
Snacks with Fruit and Veggies
Up your family's produce intake by serving snacks with fruit and vegetables. Try these suggestions for healthy snacks with fruit and vegetable ingredients.
Up your family's produce intake by serving snacks with fruit and vegetables. Try these suggestions for healthy snacks with fruit and vegetable ingredients.
Vocab: Aerobic Exercise
Definition of the term "aerobic exercise" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the term "aerobic exercise" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Start a Kids' Running Club
Help school-agers add more activity to their day with an after-school kids' running club. Starting one yourself is easy to do and simple to maintain, plus you get to join in on the jogging and walking--so your fitness levels get a boost too. A kids' running club requires very little equipment and doesn't have to cost a thing.
Help school-agers add more activity to their day with an after-school kids' running club. Starting one yourself is easy to do and simple to maintain, plus you get to join in on the jogging and walking--so your fitness levels get a boost too. A kids' running club requires very little equipment and doesn't have to cost a thing.
Starting Swim Lessons
Children should start swim lessons when they are developmentally ready to learn to swim. Prior to that, water readiness programs can help prepare kids for swim lessons later.
Children should start swim lessons when they are developmentally ready to learn to swim. Prior to that, water readiness programs can help prepare kids for swim lessons later.
Bonding Benefits
Sharing physical play helps create family closeness as well as promoting good health. Learn how and why to play together as a family.
Sharing physical play helps create family closeness as well as promoting good health. Learn how and why to play together as a family.
Getting Started
Find basic steps for improving family fitness and health. Whatever your motivation to help your family fit in more fitness, be it a New Year's Resolution, an obesity diagnosis, or a wish to play a new sport, we have suggestions to help you get inspired and get started.
Find basic steps for improving family fitness and health. Whatever your motivation to help your family fit in more fitness, be it a New Year's Resolution, an obesity diagnosis, or a wish to play a new sport, we have suggestions to help you get inspired and get started.
Playground Safety Checklist
To improve playground safety, remember the acronym SAFE, for Supervision, Age-appropriateness, cushioned Falls, and safe Equipment. Check home, public, and school playgrounds against this playground safety checklist before kids play.
To improve playground safety, remember the acronym SAFE, for Supervision, Age-appropriateness, cushioned Falls, and safe Equipment. Check home, public, and school playgrounds against this playground safety checklist before kids play.
Fitness Vocab Term: Calorie
Definition of the word "calorie" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the word "calorie" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Review - EA Sports Active
Review of EA Sports Active, EA Sports' entry into the exergame market. Read my review of this new game for Nintendo Wii. Find out how EA Sports Active compares to Nintendo Wii Fit.
Review of EA Sports Active, EA Sports' entry into the exergame market. Read my review of this new game for Nintendo Wii. Find out how EA Sports Active compares to Nintendo Wii Fit.
Review - Cat in the Hat Game
Review of Cat in the Hat (Dr. Seuss) themed I Can Do That! Game, which challenges kids to perform physical feats just like the cat from the book.
Review of Cat in the Hat (Dr. Seuss) themed I Can Do That! Game, which challenges kids to perform physical feats just like the cat from the book.
Fitness Vocab: Dehydration
Definition of the word "dehydration" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the word "dehydration" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Fitness Vocab: Cross-Training
Definition of the term "cross-training" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the term "cross-training" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
What to Pack in Your Gym Bag
Use this gym-bag packing checklist to help you remember all the essentials, whether you are planning a solo workout or a family exercise excursion.
Use this gym-bag packing checklist to help you remember all the essentials, whether you are planning a solo workout or a family exercise excursion.
Snow Play Essentials
If you are heading out into the snow to play with kids, bring a small backpack with these essentials. Suggested packing list for brief outings: sledding, snowshoeing, walking, and general snow play.
If you are heading out into the snow to play with kids, bring a small backpack with these essentials. Suggested packing list for brief outings: sledding, snowshoeing, walking, and general snow play.
Vocab: Stability Skills
Definition of the phrase "stability skills" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the phrase "stability skills" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Book Review - Soccer for Moms
Guide review of Soccer for Moms: Game & Parenting Essentials for Healthy Kids by Kerrie Paige, published by Plain White Press.
Guide review of Soccer for Moms: Game & Parenting Essentials for Healthy Kids by Kerrie Paige, published by Plain White Press.
Celebrate Walk to School Day
Help your kids get healthy and help your community support safe routes to school by celebrating Walk to School Day in October. Many communities observe Walk to School Day, Week, or Month.
Help your kids get healthy and help your community support safe routes to school by celebrating Walk to School Day in October. Many communities observe Walk to School Day, Week, or Month.
Find Time to Work Out
Try these sneaky strategies to fit in fitness when you swear you have no time to work out. There are ways to increase your daily physical activity without changing your schedule too much.
Try these sneaky strategies to fit in fitness when you swear you have no time to work out. There are ways to increase your daily physical activity without changing your schedule too much.
Fitness Vocab: Overweight
Definition of the word "overweight" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the word "overweight" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Swimming Pool Safety Tips
Lower your child's risk of drowning by following these important pool safety guidelines. A backyard pool requires pool safety equipment and constant supervision.
Lower your child's risk of drowning by following these important pool safety guidelines. A backyard pool requires pool safety equipment and constant supervision.
Fitness Vocab: Electrolytes
Definition of the word "electrolytes" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the word "electrolytes" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Help Kids Avoid Heat Stress
Kids are susceptible to heat stress and other heat-related illnesses, such as dehydration, especially when they exercise. Learn how to prevent heat stress in your physically active child during hot and humid weather.
Kids are susceptible to heat stress and other heat-related illnesses, such as dehydration, especially when they exercise. Learn how to prevent heat stress in your physically active child during hot and humid weather.
Vocab: Weight-Bearing Exercise
Definition of the phrase "weight-bearing exercise" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the phrase "weight-bearing exercise" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Fitness Vocab Term: BMI
Definition of the term "body-mass index (BMI)" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the term "body-mass index (BMI)" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Fitness Vocab Term: Obesity
Definition of the word "obesity" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the word "obesity" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Fitness Term: Carbohydrates
Definition of the word "carbohydrates" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the word "carbohydrates" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Review: Wat-aah! Bottled Water
Review and taste test of Wat-Aah! premium water designed especially for kids, with no artificial flavors, colors, additives, or sugar and packaged in a BPA-free, recyclable plastic bottle.
Review and taste test of Wat-Aah! premium water designed especially for kids, with no artificial flavors, colors, additives, or sugar and packaged in a BPA-free, recyclable plastic bottle.
Review - Coursing Around
Product review of Coursing Around, a book of outdoor activity courses for kids age 4 and up created with sidewalk chalk. Coursing Around was created by Debbie Tougas, a mother and fitness instructor in California.
Product review of Coursing Around, a book of outdoor activity courses for kids age 4 and up created with sidewalk chalk. Coursing Around was created by Debbie Tougas, a mother and fitness instructor in California.
Find a Trail Finder
These interactive trail finder listings let you search by activity (from birding to snowshoeing), by state, by terrain and more. Check out what's in your neighborhood or at your next vacation destination.
These interactive trail finder listings let you search by activity (from birding to snowshoeing), by state, by terrain and more. Check out what's in your neighborhood or at your next vacation destination.
Daisy Fuentes Pilates Review
Review of Daisy Fuentes Pilates game for Nintendo Wii, the first interactive Pilates workout for the Wii.
Review of Daisy Fuentes Pilates game for Nintendo Wii, the first interactive Pilates workout for the Wii.
Parent-to-Parent Advice
Help another parent, or find ideas from a parent with experience. Share your tips and advice on youth sports, healthy lifestyles, family fitness, physical activities, and more. Read suggestions submitted by parents and grandparents.
Help another parent, or find ideas from a parent with experience. Share your tips and advice on youth sports, healthy lifestyles, family fitness, physical activities, and more. Read suggestions submitted by parents and grandparents.
Fitness Vocab: Growth Plate
Definition of the term "growth plate" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the term "growth plate" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Review: ProWash Detergent
Review of ProWash detergent, designed for laundering workout clothes.
Review of ProWash detergent, designed for laundering workout clothes.
Vocab: Heart Rate Monitor
Definition of the term "heart rate monitor" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the term "heart rate monitor" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Fitness Vocabulary: Tendonitis
Definition of the word "tendonitis" (also spelled "tendinitis") as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the word "tendonitis" (also spelled "tendinitis") as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Vocab: Overuse Injury
Definition of the term "repetitive stress injury," also known as "overuse injury," as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the term "repetitive stress injury," also known as "overuse injury," as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Back to School Health
The start of a new school year is a good opportunity to create or revive good health and fitness habits. Add these back-to-school health changes into your get-ready plans.
The start of a new school year is a good opportunity to create or revive good health and fitness habits. Add these back-to-school health changes into your get-ready plans.
Fitness Term: Antioxidants
Definition of "antioxidants" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of "antioxidants" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Fitness Vocabulary: Muscle
Definition of the word "muscle" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.
Definition of the word "muscle" as it relates to family fitness, physical health and safety for kids and adults.