Obesity is affecting many children all over the world but particularly in North America. There are many factors that contribute to the rise in childhood obesity including a lack of physical play, overuse of video games, poor diet and cutbacks to physical education in schools. Since children are impressionable and tend to follow the examples set by their elders, it is the adults responsibility to help combat this growing trend.
With the invention of video games and other technology the youth of today are lacking the imagination of youth of the past. Because of this it is more difficult for them to come up with their own activities or games to play. This generation is so used to everything being laid out in front of them. To combat this, we have to come up with other creative, fun activities that help to stimulate their mind and get their bodies moving.
Get Them Moving
Not all children like the idea of exercise so you'll have to come up with games or activities that get them moving but don't resemble working out. For little girls, host a dance party in your living room. Move the furniture to one side to make a dance floor, get out some up beat music, invite your daughters friends and get the party started. You don't need to have an excuse for the party and there is no need to serve unhealthy snacks. Have some water and fruit and vegetables ready for when they are tired. They'll be having so much fun dancing that they won't know they are getting fit.
For boys who are used to sitting in front of the TV it can be more difficult. Teach them some simple schoold yard games that they can play in the driveway or in the yard. Games like capture the flag allow boys to use their minds to develop strategies while also giving them physical fitness. Ball games, like baseball and soccer, can also be adapted to be played in smaller areas.
Signing your children up for clubs or sports teams is also important. Not only is it a way to get them moving but they will also develop friendships and social skills that can't always be taught at home. Allow your kids to choose some of the activities themselves to give them a sense of ownership but also pick one or two activities that you want them to do. That way they will get a variety of experiences and will also learn that sometimes in life they will have to do things they don't like right away. It is important to find activities that your child is good at. This will boost their confidence which will encourage them to continue with the activity even into their teenage years.
You'll want to set an example for your kids, so join a club or team yourself. Kids will be more active if they are encouraged by their parents. Join them in activities or just run around with them in the back yard. Make the time you spend with your kids fun and encourage them to stay active. Even if the weather isn't always ideal for outdoor play, there are lots of indoor play areas and jungle gyms which offer a safe, supervised area for your kids to play in. Always remember that fitness should be fun.
