Helping Your Child Stay Active

Helping your child stay active is one of the best things you can do for them!

Physical activity is important for children of all ages and abilities.

It helps build strong bodies, improves mood, and sets the stage for a healthy lifestyle.

Here’s how you can help your child get moving and stay active:

Start Early

• Encourage lots of movement and play in young children.
• Unstructured, safe play like running or dancing is great for building healthy habits.

Make It Fun

• Find activities your child enjoys, whether it’s playing tag, biking, or sports like basketball or soccer.
• Mix in recreational activities like swimming, skating, or playground fun.

Include Physical Activity in Family Time

• Take family walks, go hiking, or play active games together.
• Visit parks, playgrounds, or sports courts for outdoor fun.

Encourage New Activities

• Cheer for your child’s interests and help them try new activities.
• Be positive and supportive about their efforts, even if they’re just starting.

Limit Screen Time After Dinner

• Swap TV time for fun activities like walking, riding bikes, or playing chase.

Be Safe

• Provide helmets, knee pads, or wrist guards for activities like biking or skating.
• Choose age-appropriate activities and supervise them to ensure safety.

How to Meet Activity Recommendations

• Kids need activities that make their hearts beat faster (aerobic), strengthen their muscles, and build strong bones.
• Many activities, like basketball or gymnastics, combine two or more of these types of movement.
• School programs, like P.E. classes or sports teams, can also help meet daily activity goals.

Examples of Activities:

• Basketball practice: Aerobic and bone-strengthening.
• Gymnastics: Aerobic, muscle-strengthening, and bone-strengthening.

For Children with Disabilities

• Physical activity is important for everyone, including children with disabilities.
• Talk with a doctor or specialist to find activities that fit your child’s abilities.
• Learn about programs designed for kids with special needs to ensure safety and fun.
• For Children with Disabilities

By making activity a regular and enjoyable part of life, you’re setting up your child for a healthy and active future!

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