 | Help your children develop good physical activity habits at an early age by
setting a good example yourself. Practice good heart healthy habits. |
| Limit the amount of television, movies, videos and computer games to less
than two hours a day. Substitute the rest of leisure time with physical
activity. |
| Plan family outings and vacations so that they involve vigorous activities
such as hiking, bicycling, skiing, swimming, etc. |
| Give your children some household chores that require physical exertion,
keeping in mind their levels of strength, coordination and maturity. Mowing
lawns, raking leaves, scrubbing floors and taking out the garbage not only
teaches responsibility but can be good exercise. |
| Observe what sports and activities appeal to your children, then find out
about lessons and clubs. Some children thrive on team sports; other children
prefer individual activities. Some activities, like tennis and swimming, can be
enjoyed for a lifetime and are much easier to learn during childhood. |
| If it is safe to walk or bike rather than drive, do so. Use stairs instead of
elevators and escalators. Increase the distances you and your children walk. |
| Discourage homework immediately after school to allow children to find some
diversion from the structure of the school day. Children should be active after
school and before dinner. |
| Choose fitness oriented gifts- a jump rope, mini-trampoline, tennis racket,
baseball bat, a youth membership at the local YMCA or YWCA. Select the gift with
your child's skills and interests in mind. |
| Take advantage of the town's recreation opportunities from soccer leagues to
fun runs. Check out the various camps or organizations that sponsor outdoor
activities such as camping, hiking trips and bird watching. |
| When your children are bored, suggest something that gets them moving-like
playing catch or building a snowman in the yard. |