Exercising Children

There was a time when you couldn’t drive through a neighborhood without seeing kids young and old chasing fireflies, laughing and skipping rope, playing basketball, riding bikes, jumping on trampolines, and climbing trees. Now days, children are far more likely to be seen sitting in front of the television or computer, playing video games and watching cartoon marathons. The lack of activity among children combined with the French fries, soda pop, candy, and chips that are commonly eaten snacks are contributing to the ever increasing number of overweight and obese children in our country.

A recent study in Journal of the American Medical Association purports that 31.5 percent of children ages 6 through 19 were overweight and 16.5 percent were seriously overweight. These statistics are alarming considering the adverse effects of obesity for a child’s physical and mental health. The psychological effects of childhood obesity include low self-esteem and self-confidence. Some overweight children are victims of bullying that may produce withdrawal from social activities and lead to problems such as depression and eating disorders. Obesity can also impact academic performance resulting in low grades. In order to combat childhood obesity, it is important for parents to encourage their children to engage in daily physical activities and/or exercise.

As a part of a child’s daily routine, parents can help their children maintain a healthy weight or lose weight by promoting exercise and physical activity. Exercise for children is not limited to organized sports and can include activities that are fun and engaging for everyone in the family. Participating in healthy physical activities should not be limited to only older children but can also include toddlers as they too need physical activity to help develop strong bones and muscles.

If your child spends a lot of his or her time in front of the TV or computer, scoot them outside and invite friends over for an afternoon of kickball, freeze tag, or hop scotch. When possible, parents should also participate in physical activities and make healthy living a family effort. Families can bike ride, hike, and play structured games such as tennis or soccer at the local park. Parents can also integrate physical activity into daily chores or yard work.

Try to make exercise a family affair.