Is your child a couch potato? Whether they’re an avid video game enthusiast or just a sucker for after school programming, all that time in front of the tube can affect their overall health. Here’s how you can help.
lazy kid with an ipad
Talk to your kids about the importance of exercise – although they might initially begrudge you for it, they’ll quickly get over it. Research shows that kids are more likely to do something if they understand why it’s beneficial. Talking to them about exercise might also reveal what kind of activities they’re interested in.
Set a good example for your kids when it comes to exercise – you can hardly expect them to get moving if you’re spending just as much time on the couch. Get active with your children whenever possible – throw the ball around, shoot some hoops or even take a walk around the neighborhood.
Variety is the spice of life, especially when it comes to exercise. Getting stuck in a routine is a quick way to become disenchanted with exercise – you’ve got to mix it up! Provide older kids with a gym membership or take them for a shopping trip at the local sporting goods store.
Do your kids help around the house? Create some chores that require them to get active and on their feet. Have them help in the yard or retrieve the mail every day – these activities can help round out their activity schedule.
Find a way to incorporate activity throughout the day, adding up to an hour. Go exploring for bugs around the neighborhood, take a walk to the community pool – whatever it takes! Adults and children need about sixty minutes of exercise every day to stay fit and healthy.
Want more tips to help your couch potato? Check out Parent Further for even more advice.