How to Get Your Kids Moving Into
a More Active Lifestyle

By Mikkie Mills

One of your biggest concerns with your children is likely how to get them to be more active. In this modern age where children spend more and more time in front of a screen, and junk food is easily accessible, it is no wonder that childhood obesity is on the rise. In addition to encouraging your children to eat healthy food, you should also be encouraging them to be more active. Children should exercise at least 60 minutes per day. Many schools are cutting physical education class, and even the schools that still have it usually only meet once or twice a week. That is not enough to keep your child healthy and active. If you want your child to lead a more active lifestyle, read on for some tips to get them moving.

Consider Your Children's Interests

If you force your children to be active doing an activity they do not like, you are not going to get great results. Make your children a part of the process by asking them about their interests and what they would like to do. You can make it clear that being active is not an option, but their choice in activity is up to them. Try to find activities that are age-appropriate for your child, so that he or she does not get frustrated if an activity is too hard. Help your child find a sport or activity that he or she enjoys, and the entire process will be much easier.

Play Together

If you can make playtime into active time, both you and your children will reap the benefits. Get outside and play with your children. It does not have to be anything complicated. Kids will love a family game of tag or hide-and-seek. You can also plan fun family activities, like swimming, biking or hiking, that your kids will love. Your kids will get moving, and as an added bonus, the time will count as bonding time to bring your family closer together.

Encourage Activity Inside as Well as Outside

Due to weather and other constraints, you may not be able to get your children outside to play every day. There are still many ways to get active while inside. Turn on some fun music and encourage a family dance-off. If your kids beg to play video games, encourage video games that require movement beyond pressing buttons on a controller. Even doing some jumping jacks and running in place will get your family's blood flowing.

Make Fitness a Part of Your Daily Life

Make a commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle for your family. You can make changes by eating healthier meals and snacks and adding protein powder> to shakes and smoothies as your family becomes more active. Choose chores for your kids that encourage physical activity, like sweeping, vacuuming and raking leaves. If you live in an area that allows it, walk or bike with your kids to school. The more you can integrate healthy behaviors and physical activity in your daily life, the easier it will be for your children to adjust.

Set a Good Example

You can't expect your kids to be active if you are not active yourself. It is important that you are a good fitness role model for your children. Find exercises or physical activities that you enjoy, and make sure that your children see you engaged in these activities. If you model an active lifestyle, your children will think it's an important part of life.

If you keep a positive attitude and help your children to have fun while being active, getting your kids to exercise can be a fun experience. Exercise should be a part of your daily lives. Your children will be healthier and will grow in self-confidence. You can even make being active a way to bring your family even closer together.

About Mikkie Mills: “I’m a Chicago native who loves to share her expertise about personal development and growth. When I’m not writing, I’m chasing the little ones around or rock climbing at the local climbing gym.” More articles by Mikkie.