KIMBERLY LUZ, MS, CHES: All you have to do is watch a kid on a playground to know most are naturally physically active. The more children are encouraged and allowed to be active at a young age, the more likely they are to adopt a lifetime of being active.
Obtaining the required amount of physical activity becomes increasingly difficult as children age. Reasons include increased demands of school, lack of athletic ability, lack of active role models and working families. Those children who have the time and desire to be active may be limited by their environment.
How do I get my child to be active?
Kids do not subscribe to the "Do as I say, not as I do" theory. They learn by observation and model adult behavior. If they see you enjoying physical activity and hear you speaking positively about physical activity it will motivate them to be more active. Motivating a child to choose physically engaging activities from a young age will foster healthy motor skills, healthy lifestyle habits and healthy growth and development.
Regular activity promotes
Outdoor fun and games
With spring here and summer just around the corner make time outside with your child a priority. The outdoors does so much for you and your child's mental and physical health. Fresh air increases lung capacity, revs up the lymphatic system, replenishes your cells with oxygen and helps overcome depression. Vitamin-D from the sun helps us absorb phosphorous and calcium.
Put a "Backyard Basket" by your back door and encourage children to use it on a daily basis. Items in the basket may include your child's favorite outside activity; some examples include hopscotch, jump rope, hula-hoop, a ball for throw and catch, pogo stick, and Frisbee. Plant a garden with your child, take family walks or bike rides (don't forget your helmet). Make being physically active part of your family's daily routine.
Physical activity is important for all children. If your child is living with a disability, talk with your health care provider before your child begins a physical activity routine. Get advice from a professional with experience in physical activity and disability. They can tell you more about the amounts and types of physical activity appropriate for your child's abilities.
The involvement of parents is vital to a child's healthy activity levels. Take an interest in your child's physical development and provide opportunities to get involved in physical activity. By doing so, you are not only strengthening the bond between you and your child; you are investing in the future of their health and wellbeing.
Kimberly Luz, MS, CHES is the education and outreach coordinator at St. John's Hospital.
On the Net:
MayoClinic.com: Vitamin D
About.com: The history of the Frisbee
Hopscotch: Wikipedia entry
Hooping.org: How to hula hoop
Pogo stick: Wikipedia entry
Jump Rope Institute: Jump rope for kids
