Most children are active by nature. But as some children grow older, they become less active, preferring sedentary leisure time. This in turn, has led to childhood obesity. Here are some ways for parents to stimulate play and activity for kids of different age groups.
Activity for Infants
Yes, babies need exercise too! Since they aren’t very mobile, they’ll need their parents to take them from the cot to the play area. Playtime helps develop babies’ motor skills and is an excellent opportunity for parent-child bonding. Buy blocks, stuffed animals and other toys that adhere to safety standard for babies for babies to play with.
Ideally, a baby should have at least 30 to 60 minutes of playtime everyday. Break the playtime into several short sessions of 15 to 20 minutes. To ensure baby’s safety, use a large blanket or mat on the floor for her to crawl, stretch and bounce.
Activity for Toddlers
Kids are extremely mobile at this age and parents will need to diligently supervise and monitor them when they play. Whenever possible, get the kids out of the house to play. The neighbourhood park and playground will be the best place for them to run around and play with other kids. Do adhere to playground rules to ensure the children’s safety.
Parents can also let children have fun and activity in local playgroups. Many playgroups organise a wide range of activities such as games, songs and dance as well as field trips to help children learn new skills and stay active.
Activity for School Children
Once a child starts school, there are even more opportunity to stay active. At school, they have physical education or gym classes. They can also take a up a sport they particularly enjoy. Football, basketball, baseball, cricket, tennis, swimming are all great choices for young school children.
Parents can also get these kids to be more active by incorporating movement into their daily routines. Walking to school, daily family dog walk, walking around the shopping mall and inviting friends over after school to play outside for a few hours to help children move more, stay active and prevent childhood obesity.
Activity for Adolescents
Children in their early teens will have mastered basic physical skills such as running, jumping and climbing. They have their own preferences and will need a different kind of support from their parents to stay active. Let children choose their own activity or sport. Parents can then show support by signing them up for sports programs, buy the right equipment, sports attire and safety gear as well as attending the events the kids are taking part in.
Older children should also be allowed to drop activities that no longer appeal to them. Encourage them to take up something else. Be supportive of their new choices.
Infants, toddlers, school children and adolescents all need to stay active as part of the strategy to prevent childhood obesity. The best motivator is the availability of proper toys or sports equipment as well as words of encouragement and praise. And no one can provide activity for kids better than parents themselves.
References:
Miller-Kovach, Karen. Weight Watchers: Healthy Parent Healthy Child. New South Wales: Allen & Unwin, 2006.
Mayo Clinic Website – Childhood Obesity
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