Last month, the Goddard School launched its “Get Active” initiative to keep youngsters moving. Michelle Obama recently announced “Let’s Move,” a national campaign to combat childhood obesity through fitness and nutritional programs. Placing children on the right path to living and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential, and that is why Goddard initiated its “Get Active” campaign. The classroom, 360- plus Goddard Schools nationwide take great strides to get preschoolers, toddlers and infants up and moving. Here are some ways you can keep them moving at home.1. Focus on fun. You don't have to call it "exercise," just consider it an activity. Find out which physical activities your child likes and encourage those.
2. Be a model of fitness. It's much easier to motivate kids to be active, if you lead an active lifestyle. Let them see you exercising. It will likely inspire them to do the same.
3 Encourage walking or biking whenever possible. Make the choice to walk to local stores, libraries or other places.
4. Get the whole family in on the fun. Have a funny dance party. Make up funny dance moves to entertain and exercise the family. Choose family activities that involve a lot of walking, the zoo, miniature golf or even the mall.
5. Limit TV and computer time. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than "two hours of daily media exposure" for children ages two and older.
6. Clean up around the house. Make chores a game by singing, making funny faces or make it competition to see who can get chores done first. On a hot day, a car wash can make exercise a cool fun activity.
7. Go to the playground. A local park or playground offers exercise, exploration and fresh air.
8. Promote physical activity every chance you get. Give your child a jump-rope, hula-hoop, roller skates or a bike for their next birthday.
Any change that promotes activity now can have a lifelong effect on exercise habits that will keeps them active and healthy for life.
Source: http://www.pbs.org
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