Disclosure: This guest post is sponsored in exchange for sharing this information.
What has happened to the kids of today? 20 years ago, they would have been more than happy to build a den, fly a kite or play sports. But research now shows that in fact, 50 percent of 12 to 20 year olds are simply not getting the exercise they need. And the reason for this is plain to see: technology. The total accessibility of the internet and the widespread ownership of smartphones, tablets and laptops, even amongst our kids, has meant that many of our children would rather exercise their fingers than their bodies and minds! But it doesn’t have to be this way.
Set an Example
It is all very well for you to ask your children to do more exercise. But of course, if you’re constantly tweeting on your iPad or playing Farmville, why should they exercise when you aren’t? In order to get your kids to exercise more, you need be doing likewise yourself! Try engaging them with some family activities, like playing football or swimming together. Children will be far more receptive if you are ‘walking the walk’ yourself. Not only that, but it is a great way for the whole family to keep active together.
Exercise Can Be Fun
Anybody who says exercise and activities are boring is clearly not trying hard enough. As a parent, try and complete household chores with your children by turning them into fun activities. Cleaning the car could turn into a water fight! Sure, it may take twice as long to get the job done this way, but you’ll have engaged your kids in an activity which is fun, good exercise and practical! Likewise, kids will always moan about going on long walks with their folks, when they could be inside playing video games or chatting on Facebook. Well, why walk when you can skate? For a very affordable price, you can buy roller-blades or roller-skates for the whole family from Skatehut. And What was previously boring for your kids is all of a sudden exciting, fun and healthy!
Start Today
Admittedly, these are only a couple of suggestions to help get your kids’ fitness and wellbeing back on track. But they are nonetheless a starting point. And that starting point should commence right now! If you agree that your kids aren’t getting the exercise they need, then don’t wait: Do something about it today! In years to come, both you and your kids will be thankful that you did.
Kayla @ TheEclecticElement says
I so, so, SO agree! When my sister and I were younger, we were ALWAYS running around outside playing on the swing set, riding our bikes, taking walks with neighbors…Technology has definitely put a big damper on being physical in both kids AND adults alike.
These are all great tips that many families should start implementing in their daily life and activities 🙂