After all that we’ve gone through – pandemic, global crisis, and advancement in technology – it is easy to say that most kids are getting used to the sedentary lifestyle. In fact, less than 24% of children from ages 6 to 17 participate in the recommended 60 minutes of physical activities daily.
This poses the question, should we be alarmed?
Being active is essential for your children’s health, well-being, and development. The lack thereof increases the risk of obesity and other forms of health concerns. This is why it is extremely important for parents, to motivate our youngsters to get moving in order to maintain a well-balanced lifestyle.
But how do we do just that?
This post will tackle 8 surefire ways to motivate your kids to be physically active as they grow into adulthood. But before we dig into that, let’s discuss the benefits of maintaining an active lifestyle for your kids first.
Benefit #1: It reduces the risk of depression and stress.
Studies have shown that exercise helps reduce the risk of depression and stress in children. This is extremely important because mental health is often overlooked.
Benefit #2: It helps them concentrate and do better in school
Being physically active is also linked to improved concentration levels and grades in school. So, if your child is struggling in school, getting them to exercise more may be the answer you’re looking for!
Benefit #3: It strengthens their bones and muscles
Strong bones and muscles are important for kids as they grow older. Regular exercise helps to strengthen these bones and muscles, reducing the risk of injuries later on in life.
Now that we understand why it’s important to keep your kids physically active, let’s discuss how we can make this possible.
Build an active playroom
Create a designated play area at home where they can move around and explore. This could be something as simple as setting up a small trampoline in the living room or investing in some fun equipment like hula-hoops, balls, or jump ropes.
Investing doesn’t only mean spending on luxurious gadgets or fitness gear. It also means allocating enough resources to the right nutrition and diet as well as fitness activities that will channel their growth and confidence.
Designate active time
Set aside at least 30 minutes to an hour every day for physical activity. This could be in the form of structured exercise like swimming or soccer practice, or simply running around and playing tag.
Whatever it is, make sure that it’s something your kids enjoy so they don’t see it as a chore. What’s great about this is you can actually make it a family activity, which is one of the best ways to bond and spend quality time with your kids.
This could be going on hikes, playing tag in the park, or having a dance party in the living room.
If you do these activities with them, not only will this create quality bonding time, but they’re also more likely to stick with an activity if they see you doing it too. This will also show your kids that being physically active is important to you.
Encourage active transportation
Whenever possible, encourage your kids to walk or ride their bikes instead of taking the car. This is a great way for them to get some exercise while also running errands or getting to and from school. If you live in a walkable or bikeable area, this can be a great way to get some family time while also getting everyone physically active.
Find their passion
There are so many different ways to be physically active. It’s important to help your child find an activity that they enjoy the most. Encourage your kids to develop a passion for sports for instance. There are great summer and winter sports to choose from. Not only will they be able to stay fit, but they will also gain more friends and build meaningful relationships in the process. In a way, you’re helping them cultivate their social skills!
Set a good example
Be physically active with your kids and include them in your fitness routine. Set a good example for them to follow. Go on family hikes, play tag with them in the backyard, or even take a walk around the block together after dinner. Kids are more likely to be physically active if they see their parents being physically active as well.
Encourage social activities
A lot of times, kids will be more physically active if they’re doing it with friends. Encourage your child to invite their friends over for a game of tag or have a sleepover where everyone goes outside and plays together. Social activities are a great way to get kids moving while also allowing them to have fun!
What social activities do your kids usually enjoy? Check out a few of these examples!
- Playing with balls
- Playing tag or catch
- Water balloon fight
- Hula hooping
- Jumping on a trampoline
- Doing cartwheels
Nature walks are also a great option as this will help your kids appreciate nature, not to mention the health benefits that exposure to it brings.
Make it a priority
It’s important to set aside time for physical activity, just like you would for homework or any other extracurricular activity. Let your kids know that being physically active is a priority in your family and that you all enjoy doing it together. This will help them understand the importance of staying active and might even make them more likely to enjoy it!
With these eight surefire ways, you’re well on your way to getting your kids to lead a healthier and more active lifestyle.
