What better thing to do than be a role model to your family while the kids are home this summer! Moms are the best role models. By leading an active life, you inspire your children to do the same. Praise, rewards and encouragement will help kids stay active. Instead of the them playing games on their iPad or mom's phone, encourage these activities instead!
Encourage your kids to enjoy activities with the family or on their own
Walking
Playing chase
Dancing
Make time for activity
Try to find at least three 30-minute slots for physical activity each week
Pick two of those slots as family activity times
Put a two-hour limit on the time your kids spend in front of a screen
Watching TV
Playing video games
Using the computer
Infants and toddlers under 2 years old should not watch TV at all
Create opportunities for your kids to be active with other kids
This can help them build friendships that include active play or sports
Informal play promotes aerobic fitness, creativity and muscle and bone strength
Introduce your kids to a variety of activities.
Find recreational, team and individual sports they like
Help them try things that don't require fine athletic skills. Look for activities they can enjoy for life, such as jogging, bicycling, hiking, or swimming
Keep a family activity log on the refrigerator. This can encourage everyone to take part and keep up the good work.
Choosing activities
Come up with family activities that can be done no matter what the weather. These may include:
Indoor facilities for:
Stationary cycling
Trampoline
Swimming
Ice or roller skating
Rock climbing
Aerobic dance
Movements to stretch and strengthen
Stair climbing
Skipping rope
Mall walking
Tell your friends and family about your interest in physical activity. Ask them to support your efforts, and consider inviting them to exercise with your family.
Include activity in your family's social calendar. Celebrate birthdays, holidays or family gatherings with physical activities, such as hiking, volleyball, bicycling, skiing, or swimming.
Other ways to help increase family fitness levels include:
Taking family walks
Finding easy, low-cost recreation programs and sports leagues
Choosing fitness gifts like a jump rope, mini-trampoline, tennis racket, baseball bat or gym membership
Assigning chores that require physical effort
Biking, rather than driving, to libraries and stores
Supporting physical education and recess at school