8 Ways to Encourage Your Children to Be Physically Active
Many children today have access to devices like mobile phones, tablets, or laptops, and using these devices may make them less interested in physical activities than before. Most children in the past would spend their days playing outside, but today many of today’s kids prefer entertaining themselves through screens. While some screen time is acceptable, you must remember that a child’s well-being is significantly linked to physical health. Hence, parents must focus on establishing habits that encourage being active. Although motivating children to be active has become more challenging, it’s possible. This article discusses ways to encourage your children to be physically active.
You should note that regular physical activity positively impacts a child’s mental health, helping reduce stress and anxiety, boost their mood, and increase their self-esteem. Plus, physical activity helps your child develop essential life skills, improves cognitive development, and provides opportunities to play and have fun. Moreover, it helps your child maintain a healthy weight, build strong muscles and bones, and lower the risk of chronic health issues.
Research has shown that exercise and physical activity can help improve the motor skills of children. Therefore, getting your child to engage in physical activity can also be crucial in helping children with cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that affects a child’s ability to move and maintain balance, making it difficult for them to participate in physical activities. However, being physically active not only aids children with such disorders but also leads to an overall better quality of life. Here are some ways children can be motivated to get moving.
Limit Screen Time
Excessive screen time can cause children to be disinterested in being physically active. Rather than going out and playing, children may entertain themselves by using their tablets or playing video games on a computer. The first step in shifting their focus from screens and towards other activities is to remove this obstacle. Limiting screen time is a great way to encourage your child to get up and move. Try setting strict rules for when screens are allowed and find alternative activities to fill that time, such as playing outside, doing art projects, or reading books.
Set an Example
A great way to encourage your child is to create an active environment. Children learn by watching and imitating those around them. Lead by example if you want your child to be physically active. So, consider going for a walk, playing a game of catch, or working out together.
Reward It
Associating rewards with physical activities may incentivize your child to leave their screens behind. Children love rewards, so offer a small treat for completing a certain number of physical activities each day or give them a larger prize for meeting a specific goal.
Family Time
When a child sees their whole family involved in a particular activity, they may feel more inclined to engage in it. Spending time together as a family is a great way to promote physical activity. You could go on a bike ride, play a family game of soccer, or take a hike together. Not only will this help your child be physically active, but it will also create memories that will last a lifetime.
Find Activities That Suit Your Child’s Interests
Children are more likely to be physically active if they enjoy the activities they are doing. Finding activities that suit your child’s interests is vital to encouraging physical activity. After all, what’s the point of trying to get your child to do something they don’t like? By tapping into your child’s passions and hobbies, you can help them discover new ways to stay active. Whether your child loves animals, sports, dance, or the arts, there’s bound to be a physical activity that aligns with their interests. By encouraging your child to pursue their passions through physical activity, they’ll be more likely to engage in regular physical activity and enjoy its many benefits.
Incorporate Physical Activity into Daily Routines
Incorporating physical activity into daily routines is a simple and effective way to encourage your child to be active. Make exercise a part of your daily routine so that it becomes a habit for your child. You can start small, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or going for a walk after dinner. Plus, involving the whole family in these new routines will create a positive and healthy environment that everyone can enjoy.
Have Toys That Promote Physical Activity Handy
Instead of relying on technology for entertainment, having toys that encourage movement and play can go a long way in getting your child up and moving. You have various options, such as jump ropes, hula hoops, Frisbees, or balls. Set up an outdoor space that encourages your child to have fun while being active. Not only do these toys promote physical activity, but they also provide endless hours of fun and laughter for the whole family.
Educate Them
Educating children about the benefits of physical activity is essential in encouraging them to be active. By explaining how exercise can improve their physical and mental health, you’ll set your child up for a lifetime of wellness. Teach them about the importance of movement, the benefits of different types of physical activities, and how they can incorporate exercise into their daily lives. Encourage them to try new activities, set achievable goals, and celebrate their progress. Empowering your child with knowledge will help them make informed decisions about their health and wellness.
Conclusion
Encouraging children to be physically active is crucial for their overall health and well-being, both physically and mentally. It provides numerous benefits, from promoting physical health to improving mental health, developing life skills, and fostering cognitive and overall development. By following these tips, parents, and guardians can help their children establish healthy habits that will last a lifetime. The key is to make all physical activity fun and a part of their daily routine so that children want to engage.
