Top 5 Ways to Raise Healthy and Fit Kids
In an age in which a predominantly sedentary lifestyle is quickly becoming the norm for both children and the adults who care for them, finding ways to keep kids in shape can be tougher than it seems. Nevertheless, difficult is by no means impossible. Rather than simply accepting the notion that younger generations are somehow exempt from being active, adopt these five tips to help you keep the kids in your life moving all year round.
Here are CanadianNanny.ca founder and child care expert, Martha Scully’s tips for raising healthy and fit kids.
1. Make It Fun
Sure, doing 50 jumping jacks might be more effective than playing a game on the Wii. However, your child will likely be much more interested in playing a game than in performing boring, repetitive exercises. By finding ways to be active that your child may actually enjoy, you’ve already won half the battle.
2. Challenge Them
Make sure your workout ideas are varied enough so your kids don’t get bored with them. Ideally, you should have at least five to 10 possible activities to choose from (each with varying levels of intensity) at any given time, as the notion of variety alone often excites children.
3. Offer Contests/Incentives
For nannies, babysitters, daycare providers and anyone in charge of a group of kids, giving out small prizes for things such as races or other activities is a great motivator. On the flip side, if you are working with just one child, simply keep track of how much she accomplishes and gently encourage her to try to beat her previous time/score each time.
4. Stick to a Schedule
It can be difficult when dealing with kids (or even adults), but sticking to a schedule is the best way to keep your child healthy and active. For instance, if you work out every day from 5 to 5:30 p.m., your child will eventually begin to expect and even look forward to working out at this time.
5. If All Else Fails, Be Tricky
Rather than trying to force kids into anything, simply challenge them to a race or another fun activity. In terms of diet, try finding snacks and foods that are both healthy and tasty to your child. Over time, children will find their own ways to stay in shape and you will no longer need to put so much effort into tricking them into doing so.
Conclusion
Overall, helping your kids stay fit and healthy is important. By following these tips, you are well on your way to instilling healthy values that will last a lifetime.
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