So, I notice that once children go to middle school there is no more recess. You still have physical education (PE), but it is not given throughout the entire school year. So what is the meaning of that! We have overweight children and pinned up energy with no where to go.
Exercise and academics go hand in hand. Physical activity is an important part of maintaining good health and encouraging a creative mind. When the body is healthy and stress-free, ideas are more natural, listening skills improve, and thinking is clearer. Students will work harder and complete their assignments because after all of that energy is released they tend to be more focused.
As we get older we seem to exercise less. But, children have that natural tendency to keep moving. We need to assist them in the development of their bodies and mind. Here are some tips to get your child to become more active:
Play outside in the neighborhood: Remember when we were kids our parents use to tell us to "go outside and play". We didn't have cartoon network, nickelodeon, or computers. We were creative and found other things to do. Riding a bike, playing tag, skateboarding, skating or just walking can help children release a lot of that pinned up energy.
Join a sport: Playing sports is a great confidence builder and promotes a mindset of working together as a team. Some studies even show that exercise makes you smarter. Find a sport that your child wants to play and have them try it out. But, quitting should not be an option. They should stick with it until the end of the season. Children tend to want to give up too quickly once they see there is a bit of a challenge. Endure through the tough times and they will appreciate the reward in the end.
Do family activities: Spending time with family is something that is very important. I'm sure you have many memories of fun times with your family . Take time to do fun things which encourage healthy activity: walking, dancing, swimming, roller skating, ice skating, a day at the park/beach, or even going to the gym together. And, don't think you have to leave your house to have fun. There are fun games on the Wii that are also physical. My girlfriend gave my children the Michael Jackson Experience game. Now talk about a workout...try keeping up with Michael Jackson as he dances on the screen.
Parents get active: So, what about putting down the phone, moving away from the TV, and getting some sunshine and fresh air. Take some time to play with your kids, no matter the age. Believe me they will enjoy it...even if they act like they don't. I know it's hard, but your sanity and even more important their well being depends it. It's natural for children to emulate what they see. So, what better person to imitate than mom or dad.
I hope you feel encouraged and enthused to maintain a healthy lifestyle for yourself and your family. It starts with us, the parents, and the children will follow in our footsteps. Exercise and have fun!
