OK, so chores aren’t the most fun way to get your child active. But chores
can be active. Consider this: light house cleaning—activities like dusting and
vacuuming—for half an hour can burn between 81 to 104 calories; vigorous
cleaning—mopping or washing the car—burns between 145 to 188. Making chores a
daily part of your child’s life can play a major part in keeping them active
(and the house clean!).
Organized Sports
When your child reaches the right age, enroll them in sports—if that appeals
to them. Organized sports are a great way to promote activity as well as teach
your child important social skills such as teamwork, good sportsmanship, and
how to interact with their peers and elders.
But don’t forget that sports also have an off season. It’s important to keep
your child active even when their sport isn’t. Be careful not to burn them out
on a sport; variety is the name of the game. No matter what time of year it is,
some sport will be in season. Let them try a number of different sports.
Active Doesn’t Necessarily Mean Sports
Every one is wired a little differently. Maybe organized sports just aren’t
your child’s cup of tea. That doesn’t mean they should be allowed to sit in
front of the TV. There are still plenty of other activities they could be
doing. Look for something they can get into, and then encourage them.
Just getting your child outside will go a long way toward increasing
activity. Take a moment and try to think of outdoor activities that don't
require you to be active. Now do the same for indoor activities. Which list is
longer? Chances are, once your child is outside they'll be active.