The holidays are almost here, which means for some parents 6 weeks of making
sure the kids don’t spend their summer in front of the TV. Here
at Tutor Doctor we know how important it is to you that your children
stay healthy and active, especially during the holidays. Physical Activity
Guidelines even recommend that children should take part in at least 60
minutes of physical activity everyday. For most parents an hour a day
can seem like a daunting task, which is why we’ve come up with 6
easy ways to keep your kids moving and make the most out of their summer.
1. Limit technology time
During the long summer period it’s easy for kids to spend way too
much time in front of the TV, computer, tablet or their phone. It’s
really important that screen time is limited and kids are encouraged to
take part in other activities instead. The American Academy of Pediatrics
recommends no more than 2 hours of screen time a day, leaving plenty of
time for physical activities.
2. Get the whole family involved
Getting together and being active as a whole family is an easy way to get
the kids moving around. It probably won’t even feel as if they are
exercising as they are having fun at the same time as spending quality
time with siblings and parents. Try going out for a family bike ride or
planning a long walk in the local woods. You could even pack a picnic.
If the kids (or adults) are feeling competitive then spend the afternoon
playing a game of family rounders, cricket or tennis. Make things more
exciting by having a mini tournament.
3. Make it fun
Many kids associate exercise with ‘not so fun’ activities such
as running or sports they don’t like in P.E. It’s important
to encourage as well as remind your children that there are lots of fun
alternatives. This could include trampolining, volleyball, ice-skating,
swimming, rounders’, rollerblading or even horse riding.
4. Be resourceful
Many parents (and children) think that they have to leave the house to
be active, which is far from the truth. Be resourceful with what you may
already have at home- such as skipping ropes, footballs, frisbees and
tennis rackets. You might even have a trampoline in your back garden-
so make sure it gets used!
Getting the kids to use their imagination and make up games or challenges
can also be an easy way to get them moving around and playing at home.
5. Look for interesting clubs/day activities
Another great way to get your child moving this summer is by encouraging
them to join a club. It’s important to think outside the box and
find activities that might not be considered as exercise but as a hobby.
There are tons of interesting clubs out there such as dancing, martial
arts, kickboxing, gymnastics, horse riding, rowing, swimming, ballet,
basketball and cheerleading. But shh! – It’s exercise in disguise.
6. Set an example
If you want your kids to be active then it’s vital that you set a
good example and are active yourself. Make a point of showing them what
you do to stay fit and healthy. If your routine is child friendly then
why not get them to join in with you one day? It would be a fun way to
encourage your kids and motivate them to want to be fit and healthy.
For more in-depth information about the recommended physical guidelines
for children and what is classed as physical activity visit this
NHS web page. It has all the important details you need to know.