Getting children involved in fun physical activities keeps them healthy and active. It is important that physical activity be a regular part of your family life. It becomes easy when you help your child find activities that she enjoys, that she can do as part of her everyday routine.
Parents play a key role in helping their child become physically active. The following ways may help you get started:
- Keep it Simple. Children need about an hour of physical activity each day to stay healthy. Allow her to do anything (riding a bicycle, swimming, playing cricket, badminton, etc.) that can keep her physically involved for at least 60 minutes.
- Divide her physical activity time to accommodate her school work and other interests. Let her ride her bicycle or walk for 20 minutes in the morning and do other physical activities in the evening.
- Provide Balls, Jump ropes, Bicycles, etc. – that make great toys for children and encourage physical activity and opportunities to play outdoors.
- Spend active time with your child. Try and find something that you both enjoy doing.
- Encourage your child to play outdoors and appreciate her efforts when she does.
- Organise family activities such as camping, outdoor games and picnics, etc.
- Try and involve your child in simple daily chores around the house.
- Limit her screen time. Keep track of the amount of time your child spends watching TV, or using computers, tablets, smartphones and other devices.
- Model a healthy lifestyle and be regular with your exercise routine and your child is likely to follow your lead.
- Don’t force anything. Set your child free to decide which physical activity she wants to go with. Encourage her interests and make sure she is doing the right thing.
