Cold winter days now have replaced the warmth and activity of summer. With winter come the holidays – stuffed with festivities, fun and food – lots of food. Childhood obesity is on the rise across the United States, which is why keeping your kids physically active year round is so important.
Staying active can be a challenge when your kids are stuck inside. The winter months are a good time to take advantage of resources in your community, including local community centers or the YMCA. Both offer programs for your whole family to stay active together.
Research shows physical activity decreases stress levels and promotes family time. At home, create obstacle courses. While watching TV, perform physical activities during commercial breaks, or get your kids moving to age-appropriate exercise videos.
Just because it’s winter outside, your kids don't have to stay inside. Make the most of winter and have fun participating in outdoor activities like:
• Ice-skating.
• Snow shoeing.
• Playing hockey.
• Cross-country skiing.
• Building a snowman or snow fort.
• Sledding.
Another way to make exercise fun is to create an activity chart. Set weekly or monthly goals and when your kids achieve those goals, reward them with things other than food.
Remember to limit “screen” time (TV, video games, computer games and even phone time) to less than two hours a day. Kids should get 60 minutes of exercise or physical activity every day. It’s important to note, however, that exercise for an adult is not the same as exercise for a child. Physical activity should be packaged into smaller increments for kids.
No matter what time of year, it’s important for parents to get involved and be active with their kids. Be a role model for your children and set a positive example. Kids will respond to that. The key is to make exercise fun, be creative and lead by example.
Stacy Stolzman, PT, is a physical therapist at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin.