When most adults think about physical activity, they imagine working out in the gym, running on a treadmill, or lifting weights. But for kids, physical activities can be in the form of structured classes like basketball or dance practice and unstructured play like riding a bike around the neighbourhood or playing tag during recess.
Studies have shown that regular being physically active is extremely important for children in their growing years as it helps them to maintain a healthy body weight, strengthen bones and muscles, as well as reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases later in life. Beyond improving fitness, physical activity also provides a multitude of benefits such as improved dexterity, cognitive thinking, social interaction skills, emotional stability, and academic performance.
3 Ways to Encourage More Physical Activity in Kids
Parents and caregivers are responsible for the wellbeing of the children they look after, so encouraging little ones to be more physically active is important. Here are four ways you can encourage children of any age to participate in more physical activity every day:
1) Make it Fun
Children love to play, whether it’s a video game or a casual round of Catch with friends at the park. Every child will have their own preference for what physical activities they think are fun, so it’s important to talk with them to learn what activities they enjoy doing most. This will allow you to incorporate their interests into their active playtime so they can start building a positive relationship to being active and healthy. For instance, if you observe that your child is interested in dancing , choreograph a dance routine together and dance to your child’s favourite music.
2) Get the Family Involved
Regardless of age, finding time to be more physically active can have many positive effects on your well-being. Plus, with the whole family focusing on maintaining or improving their health, you are also able to spend more quality time together. Plan family hiking trips, bike rides around the neighborhood, or a day at the pool swimming! The more everyone enjoys the activity, the more fun it will be for everyone.
3) Provide Age Appropriate Opportunities
Encouraging children to exercise necessitates age-appropriate activities. Weightlifting and long-distance jogging might overwhelm or bore them with complex equipment. Opt for engaging options like swimming or rollerblading to keep them active and entertained. Early confidence, strength, and coordination development are crucial for a healthy lifestyle. Parents should collaborate with their children to discover suitable activities matching their personality, abilities, and interests, fostering a consistent love for exercise.
At Dazzling Stars, we are committed to nurturing young minds and unlocking their potential from within. Our student care programme is carefully planned by a team of experienced and qualified educators who are passionately devoted to moulding self-assured, confident and well-rounded individuals.
Through a series of structured and semi-structured physical movements and games, your young one will be equipped with the fundamental movement skills to continue being involved in physical activity in their later life, as well as the ability to regulate their mental and emotional well-being.
Contact us to find out more about our after school care programme.