Activities for kids don't seem to involve as much activity these days; television and playing computer games don't do much for fitness. So what can we do to make a difference?

Here are some tips for trying to make kids more active and getting them into the healthy habit for life.

Turn off the television!

Or at least restrict the time spent watching TV. Sitting on the couch gulping down sugar laden drinks and munching on potato chips and chocolate bars doesn't help either! Encourage healthy snacks.

Supervise your children's activity wherever possible

If your neighbourhood is safe then encouraging children to walk or ride their bike around the streets or at a playground is not an issue. Realistically, the need to supervise your children's play outside the home can often limit some opportunities for exercise.

Encourage participation in sports

Exercise is the goal here not a "win at all costs" attitude. Team or individual sports at school or local clubs often involve some structured training as well as competition. Involvement in these sports encourage social gatherings and activities.

Be an example to your children

If you adopt healthy eating and exercise habits, your children will get the message. Giving them the opportunity to live healthy early in life will help protect them against the inactivity-related diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, later in life.

Related reading:
Active Parenting Required
Disease Risk for Unfit Teens
Home Exercise Helps
Embrace Outdoors Play