They love to wiggle and run, stretch and jump. They just think their having fun, we know they’re getting exercise. The lazy days of summer can sometimes lead to snacking, sitting, and sedentary kids. As their parents and caregivers, we look for new fun ways to get out all that extra energy. By focusing on eating right and incorporating physical exercise into our daily routines, we can help ensure our children are creating healthy habits that will last a lifetime. Here are some fun movement ideas to get the whole family moving this summer.
Go for a family walk: The summers here in NC can be so hot that we stay in the AC all day. In the evenings, take advantage of the extra daylight hours and take a stroll around the neighborhood.
Let their imaginations “run” wild: Use an open space in your home to play a movement game. Have your child start at one end of the space and get to the other end by skipping, hopping, rolling, crawling, or leap frogging! There’s no end to the possibilities!
Turn snack time into a fun activity: Buy a variety of wholesome ingredients and let your kids come up with a whole new snack. They can combine and create new combinations while learning to measure, pour and scoop. You never know what new family favorites might be created by your budding chef!
Remember, kids love to model your behavior. Parents who live an active lifestyle raise kids who have an active lifestyle. If you snack on fresh cut veggies, fruit and other wholesome foods, they will follow right along. So this summer, make it fun. Make it a family initiative to get moving, eat right and start them on the path to lifelong fitness.
Michele Carter is the Director at the brand new Kiddie Academy in Fuquay-Varina.
