With all the video games and computer devices available to kids these days, it’s easy for them to fall into a sedentary lifestyle. But as a parent, you do have the ability to foster in them a love of healthy activities. These tips will help you teach your kids that there is more in life than fight digital aliens on TV.
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Start early. As soon as your child can crawl, introduce him or her to the great outdoors. Let your kids crawl in the grass. And when they learn to walk and run, play with them as much as possible.
Make outdoor activities, everyday activities. Whether rain or shine, do something with or encourage your child to do something outdoors. The more time your child spends doing outdoor activities, from running to fishing to biking, the more it will become a regular routine. Then, being active will be being normal.
Support all sports. Whether your child wants to learn karate or race in the Iditarod, be supportive. All sports help children learn to have fun while being active, so no sport is a bad sport for a child to participate in. With parental encouragement, your child will have a greater chance of excelling.
Be active with your child. Monkey see, monkey do. If you want your child to be regularly active, you need to teach by example. In addition to playing sports with your child, be active in alternative ways such as walking to the grocery store or biking to work.