6 Secrets to Raising Healthy, Active Kids

In today’s age of modern technology, the internet, and other electronic devices, kids are less often seen running around the neighborhood, playing at the playground and being active with other kids. Instead, they are often seen glued to the couches thumbing through smartphones and playing video games. While there’s nothing wrong with using technology for entertainment, it’s one of the reasons why promoting an active lifestyle among children is increasingly challenging. As a parent, you have an important role to play in your child’s healthy growth and development. Follow these tips for raising healthy and active kids. 

 

Let them choose

Instead of being the one deciding for your little one, allow them to choose the kind of activities they will enjoy. Give them a wide range of options to choose from when it comes to games, toys, and even facilities. Also ask them if they want to get involved in sports or if they want to enjoy the outdoors like the beach or park. When kids are given options, the more likely they are to participate. So, take time to discuss these things with them and ask what they will enjoy the most. They are more likely to continue it once they’ve developed a liking for it.

 

Provide active toys

How much of your children’s toys are comprised of active toys and how many are comprised of electronic devices? It won’t make sense to spoil a child with all the latest gadgets while trying to raise them to become healthy and active kids. If you want to encourage more physical activity for your child, take a look at the number of gadgets they’ve been using. Does your child have access to jump ropes, different types of balls, badminton racket, or a bike perhaps? 

 

Make it a daily habit

Raising healthy and active kids isn’t something that parents can achieve overnight. It’s a continuous and long process. Therefore, if you want them to embrace an active lifestyle, help them establish the habit. Active play should be part of their daily routine and any form or physical activity will do. What’s important is it’s done consistently and regularly. 

 

Set a good example

Promoting a healthy and active lifestyle should start with parents. Have you recently evaluated your own habits? If you want to raise an active child, are you practicing what you preach and being a good example for them? How much time do you spend each day on physical activities? Does your child see you engage in sports or healthy activities like walking or basic exercises? Or do they see you always glued on the couch watching your favorite series on Netflix?

 

Make it a family affair

Whatever routine and activities you do together as a family largely influences the habits your child develops as they grow older. Make an active lifestyle more fun and enjoyable by making it a family affair. Plan out family activities that your children will enjoy. For example, you can plan out a trip to the beach or go hiking. Achieve a healthy lifestyle and do it together as a family. Not only is it going to help you raise active kids but it surely is an excellent way to connect and strengthen your bond. 

 

Limit screen time

 

Because addiction to electronic devices can hamper your goal of raising an active child, be sure to limit their screen time. While it’s convenient to allow them to get engrossed in playing video games, especially when you have too many things on your plate, you must be aware of the impact it makes on their overall growth and development. Set a screen time schedule and make rules around using electronics. This will allow them more time to engage in active play.

 

Raising active kids can be extra challenging nowadays as there are more and more distractions surrounding our children. But you can always use these tips as it’s never too late to start!

 

Here at Young Scholars Academy, we are with you in your goal of raising healthy and well-rounded children. Please feel free to give us a call for more information.