As a parent, you can help shape your child’s attitudes and behaviors towards physical activity, giving them a greater opportunity to have a long and healthy life. Encourage your child to be physically active for 60 minutes or more each day with active play or organized sports. Here are 5 fun ways to do this:
1
Visit the Dequindre Cut for a fun-filled walk. If you haven't been to the Cut you have to check it out! tons of recreational fun. Walk it all the way to the Eastern Market for an immersive experience of vendors selling locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, and so much more!
2
Ask your kids to help you with lawn work or gardening. Not only do they learn new skills, but being outdoors in nature, working with soil, can help take their minds off of regular stressors or anxiety they may be experiencing. A bonus is your kids seeing the result of something that they did, the growth of a beautiful flower/plant, a nice green/perfectly manicured lawn, etc. This builds pride in them! Tip: If you don't have outdoor space at your home encourage your child to help out at Grandma's house or someone else's who can use the help.
3
Let's dance! Stream your kid's favorite summer jams and have a dance party in the backyard or in the basement. It doesn't have to be an expensive or fancy event. All you need is some cold beverages (ice water water with lemon slices), a few snacks, and of course some good music! Tip: granola (loose/bars), light popcorn, and fresh fruit are all good relatively inexpensive and healthy options!
4
Don't stop dancing! Dance while you clean the house. If you don't already, try adding music and dance into your cleaning routine. This helps turn chores into something a little more fun and can help create good energy and vibes in your home. Kids can sing and dance around the house while helping to keep their home clean.
5
Embrace "active" technology! A lot of kids are into video games, which is fine. Use their interest in gaming as a way for them to stay active by getting them video games that require you to use a handheld device with a sensor that makes them move in order to play the game.
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