Get Moving!
5 Tips for Raising Active Kids
1. Take a Break From Cartoons
From Big Bird to Spongebob, little children love television. It’s not necessary to cut out TV time altogether, but it’s important to mix it up with active playtime. Toddlers and preschoolers should not be sedentary for more than an hour at a time except when sleeping.
2. Remember Your Inner Child
Though it may be tempting to just sit and chat with the other parents at the park, getting up and playing with your child can be a fun way to bond. You’ll set a great example for your child while getting some exercise yourself – and playing games with your child can be a great way to remember the fun of your own childhood!
3. Make Playtime Fun
It’s very important not to force your child to engage in physical activity. When you propose a game of tag or peek-a-boo, it should be because it’s fun, not because there’s been too much sitting around that day
4. Babies Need Movement Too
Try not to keep an infant confined to a baby seat for long periods. Even when very young, children move differently when stretched out on a blanket than when strapped into a baby seat.
5. Get Caregivers Involved
Though keeping up with an active child might be difficult for an older adult, even a slower activity, such as a walk around the block, is better than placating the child with television or a video – and it can be a great way to get the grown-up moving, too!
Source: www.toddlerstoday.com
