Every parent wants the best for their children, and making sure that they are maintaining good health is part of that. While some kids might be more naturally active and thrive off of sporting activities, this isn’t the case for all of them. Even if your child prefers more sentient activities, you do still need to make sure that they are getting enough exercise each week outside of their school P.E classes. If you are concerned that your child isn’t engaging in enough physical activity each week, here are some tips to help you encourage them to do more.
Set the Example Yourself
A good place to start if you want your kids to do more exercise is to make sure that you are setting the right example. This doesn’t mean that you have to dedicate more time to the gym as a parent with all of your other responsibilities. This isn’t always realistic. However, you can start to do things like going for walks in the evening, or even doing some workouts in your garden if this is suitable. The more your kids see you doing it, the more it might encourage them to do the same, and you won’t be accused of hypocrisy. It’ll also result in more health benefits for you as well.
Help Them Find an Activity That They Enjoy
It is important to make sure that you aren’t forcing your kid to do something that they don’t enjoy, as this could put them off from getting involved in other sports and fitness activities in the future. If you want them to stick to doing more exercise, you need to let them find something that they have fun with. Kids can also be fickle, so they might love something for a month or two and then grow bored and what to try something else. This might be slightly frustrating, but it is a good idea to let them explore these new interests, and one day something might stick.
Find Something Age Appropriate
There might be a fitness class or sports club in your local area that you think your kid might like, but if they don’t offer children’s or teen classes, it might not be the best fit. These activities are also social opportunities, so make sure that you are finding one that will give your child the chance to make some new friends in their age group. For example, Fight City Gym offers kids MMA classes, so see if there is something like this near you or for another activity if your kid prefers.
What Are Their Friends Doing?
It could be a good idea to speak to the parents of your child’s friends to find out if they are getting involved in any fitness classes or groups in your area. If their friends are doing it, they might be more inclined to get involved, as it gives them more time to spend hanging out with their buddies and enjoying themselves. It might even make it easier for you as a parent, as you could share the responsibilities of dropping off and picking up the kids after classes with the other parents.
If you would like to see your child engaging in more exercise, consider the tips above and see how they might help to encourage your kid to be more active.
