• Get creative to get your kids moving by going on a scavenger hunt or setting up an obstacle course.
• Take advantage of modern technology by using apps and virtual reality games that involve movement like running, jumping, and throwing.
• Incorporate movement into everyday activities, such as walking up the stairs or playing on playground equipment.
• Enroll your kid in ballroom dance lessons or gardening activities to keep them active and help them learn new skills.
• Walk together instead of driving to get your kids at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day.
Getting your kids interested in physical fitness can be hard, but it’s important for their health and development. According to a study, only 24% of children between the ages of 6 and 17 engage in 60 minutes of physical activity every day. It can be alarming to know that more kids prefer staying inside and playing video games instead of going out for fresh air.
So, how do you get your kids motivated to move? One way to do this is by getting creative with how your kids can move their bodies. This doesn’t have to mean playing sports or going on long walks – there are lots of unconventional ways to get kids active. Here are a few ideas:
Make a Game Out of It
One great way to get your kids excited about physical activity is to turn it into a game. You can invent some games or use what you have at home. Here are some ideas you can try.
Hula Hoop Game
This is not your ordinary hula hoop game – your kids can move their bodies differently and earn points. Have them do things like hula hoop for 2 minutes, spin around in circles 10 times, or jump up and down 15 times. Not only will your kids get physical activity, but they’ll also have fun!
Scavenger Hunt
Send your kids on a scavenger hunt around the house or the neighborhood. They can try to find certain objects and take pictures of them with their phones. This is a great way to get your kids active and exploring new places. You can do this every weekend or on special occasions.
Obstacle Course
This is great if you have a large backyard or park nearby. Set up an obstacle course with different stations and have your kids complete the course in record time. This will get their hearts pumping, and they’ll have fun doing it!
Take Advantage of Technology
If it’s hard for you to get your kids outside and active, you can take advantage of modern technology. Your kids can play many virtual reality and active video games to get physical activity in a controlled environment. These games involve movements like running, jumping, and throwing – all great ways to stay fit.
Many apps and websites are designed specifically to motivate kids to be active. For instance, the “Fit Kids Challenge” app lets your kids track their progress, earning points for time spent being active and completing challenges. You can download several different ones that teach everything from yoga postures to dance moves. They can learn something new while exercising at home or school. Additionally, many apps offer rewards such as virtual badges that encourage children to keep going even if they don’t like exercising.
Incorporate Movement into Everyday Activities
Movement doesn’t always need to be structured exercise; sometimes, everyday activities like walking up stairs, taking out the trash, or playing on playground equipment can be just as effective in helping kids stay physically active and fit. You can also let them try the following:
Enrolling in Ballroom Dance Lessons
If your kid loves dancing, enrolling them in ballroom dance lessons is a great way to get physical activity. Ballroom dancing involves two partners, which helps them learn to socialize and build relationships while having fun. Plus, they’ll be learning important skills like coordination and discipline that will help them in other areas of life.
Gardening
Gardening is another great way to get your kids active. They can practice different tasks such as planting seeds, pulling weeds, and harvesting vegetables. Gardening helps boost their confidence and helps them learn about nature. This is also a great way to introduce them to the benefits of sustainable living and the importance of healthy eating.
Walk Instead of Driving for Them
This is an easy way to ensure your kids get at least 30 minutes of exercise daily—walk instead of drive when you can. Whether going to the grocery store or the park, walking together as a family gives you quality time and helps your kids stay active.
These are just a few unconventional ways to help your kids stay active and healthy. By getting creative with your kids’ exercise, you can motivate them to move their bodies and stay fit. With the right support and encouragement, they’ll be more likely to develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime.
