Tips for Encouraging Family Physical Activity

Tips for Encouraging Family Physical Activity

The number of obese children and adolescents has increased significantly in the past four decades.  As a parent, grandparent or caregiver what can you do?  One option is to encourage family physical activity. Here are some tips for encouraging physical activity.

• Play together.  Find opportunities to be active when together. It may be biking together , hosting a softball game or going to the local park playground.

  
• Limit screen time.  Screen time which includes television, video games and computer use to no more than two hours a day. By setting limits, you help them learn to balance their lives with a variety of activities.
• Schedule Active Time. Set aside time every week to schedule time for family activities. 
• Rethink placing televisions in bedrooms.  Seventy-seven percent of sixth graders have a television in their room.  Likewise, younger children do not need a computer in their room.
• Plan for variety by scheduling several  activities for your children to experience.
• Look for opportunities to move.  Don’t take the closest parking space.  Park at a distance and walk a few extra steps.  Ask children to join you when walking the dog.  Use the stairs when possible.
• Look for community activities.  Many communities have planned activities for families.  Take advantage of these events. Many of these events are free.

Source: Iowa State University Extension.