Regular physical activity is one of the highest priorities for children. A healthy diet is a good start, but nothing compares to moving your body at a young age. Kids naturally enjoy being active and love to exercise, especially if it's done in a friendly environment, just for fun, and without competition. The enjoyment of physical exercise from an early age, and the influence of parents, teachers and friends contribute to shaping a lifelong positive attitude towards sport and exercise.
Children have different needs and interests, depending on personality and stage of development. They are quick to learn skills, may develop a passion that can last a lifetime, whether it be for dancing, ice-skating, tennis, swimming, gymnastics, horse-riding or archery. Ball games are very popular, as they enhance motor skills and team spirit. In a team effort, everyone works together to obtain a final result. Even if the team loses, there are so many good moments and learning opportunities. Friendships are formed and often last a lifetime; these instants are unique and will never be forgotten!
The emphasis on enjoyment and having fun with a group of friends, rather than winning at all cost, will encourage children to participate in a wide variety of sports and disciplines at school, within the community, and with family and friends. Offer young people a range of options to choose from, so there is a better chance of finding something they enjoy, and that suits them individually. Children who enjoy the rewards of sports participation, such as belonging to a team, achieving goals and learning new skills, are more likely to continue playing sport throughout adolescence and adulthood.
While it's good to encourage physical activity, inactive pastimes should be avoided as much as possible. Some sedentary activities are extremely popular with children: TV, computer games, portable games, the internet, youtube videos, DVDs and mobile phone messaging. These couch-potato activities lead to motion deprivation. Instead of moving, these youngsters spend hours doing little more than sitting down, and possibly eating junk food at the same time. More than 60 minutes a day of any of these activities, and there looms the danger of ending up with serious health and behavioural consequences.
Parents are role models and by setting a good example, they have a unique opportunity to have a positive impact on their children's exercise habits. The home environment is a powerful influence, and if mum and dad go swimming, walking or jogging for instance, the kids will more than likely join in these activities and follow in their footsteps. Children are good learners. They learn by what they see and they love to imitate their parents' behaviour. They basically copy what you do, whether it's healthy or harmful! So choose healthy foods and active pursuits for yourself. Your children will want to follow your habits, and emulate their parents' desire to be healthy and active.
If you haven't given exercise much thought but would like to give it a go, for yourself and your children, do it progressively. Introduce changes gradually. The more gradual the changes you make for yourself and your family, and the more support available, the more likely you and your children are likely to succeed and develop strong and permanent exercise habits. When you do start to make these changes, make sure you are well informed. There is the child's growth and development to consider, and valuable lessons about exercise that will last a lifetime.
With much love,
Bella
