Enjoy the outdoors
Take advantage of the outdoors whenever you can. Children tend to run, climb, hop, skip and jump more when they are active outside. This allows them to develop fundamental movement skills that can help them in continuing to be active into their adulthood. When the weather is nice, hop on your bike with your kids and ride to the park or play tag. When it gets a little colder go sledding or skating. Get them to bring a friend or two and enjoy the outdoors!
Be active together
A good way to get your family active is to participate in physical activities together. Ultimately, the activities you choose have to fit your family needs and lifestyle. It can be as simple as taking a walk after meals. On the weekends, add active family outings such as swimming. Activities that are fun and have limited structure are excellent ways to promote activity with your kids.
Set a good example
The more active you are, the more likely your kids will be too. Try adding activities such as walking to the grocery store or walking them to their friend’s house. If your children see you being active, they are more likely to develop this healthy habit too.
Support your child’s favourite sport
It has been shown that children whose parents actively encourage their physical activity pursuits are much more likely to stick to these activities. Taking your child to practice, cheering them on, and complimenting them on their participation are all ways to promote healthy behaviours. No matter which activity, the important part is to encourage exercise. The focus for children should be placed on making fitness fun and developing fundamental motor skills.
Try family fitness vacations
Keep physical activity in mind when planning family vacations. Look for ways to implement activity both indoors and out. Play family games and choose activities that have free movement without a lot of structure, such as tag or kick ball. These activities are fun and promote decision making while being active.
Please note that health information on this website is for educational purposes and is not intended to replace advice from your physician or other healthcare professionals.
