For many, the warmer months of spring and summer signal the beginning of long active days outside. Summer finds many kids involved in more activities than their parents can keep up with. But for some children, the absence of the regular routine of school means their level of sedentary behavior will actually increase and their fitness and nutrition habits could potentially worsen.
To combat those concerns, here are 5 fitness tips to help keep your kids active and healthy this summer:
Focus on a consistent sleep schedule. In many homes, the absence of an early school day means anything goes for bedtime. However, kids (and adults) will function much better if a regular bedtime is kept. While an hour past the norm is acceptable, kids who stay up much later won’t feel like rolling out of bed at a decent hour the next morning, let alone getting after their day with the intent of being super active.
Minimize screen time. Stay on top of the amount of time your child spends behind a television, computer, or video game console. While they are easy babysitters, numerous studies prove these forms of inactive entertainment are a direct cause of the increase in the number of overweight teens. Instead of allowing technology to negatively impact your child’s health, try to proactively schedule daily time for activities that involve them getting up, out, and moving.
Schedule major activities thought the summer. It seems like a no-brainer, but attempt to get your kids involved in the wide variety of summer activities available in your area. In addition to the usual swim lessons, there are many day camps, organized team sports, and summer-long camps and fitness classes available like the ones at https://transformingstrength.com/small-group-fitness-classes/ A quick internet search should pull up lots of summer activity options in your local area.
Explore your child’s interests. If organized activities aren’t your child’s first choice, find out what is. Depending upon your kid’s age, you may be able to introduce them to golf, tennis, running, martial arts, or weight training. The key idea is to find something they enjoy so they will stick with it.
Lead by example. In the end, parents are the best role model for inspiring healthy fitness and nutrition habits for their kids. Consistently demonstrate the key elements of health and your child will follow. Get to bed at a decent hour, turn the television off, and play some ball with your kids. It’s a health and wellness win-win for both of you.
