How to Get Your Kids to Exercise at Any Age


No matter what your child's age, there are always things they can do to keep active. Lots of times, parents simply don't know how to get their kids off the couch.

Here are a few ideas to help your child get moving:

Kids Ages 1 to 3

  • Play Ring Around the Rosie
  • Toss a beach ball back and forth
  • Make an obstacle course in the house with boxes, chairs or anything you have laying around
  • Play musical chairs
  • Take them to a nearby kids gym for a class with other children
  • Go to a local park

Kids Ages 3 to 7

  • Play hopscotch
  • Do jumping jacks and count how many you can do
  • Take a bike ride through your neighborhood or local park

Kids Ages 7 to 11

  • Practice somersaults, cartwheels and hand stands and consider signing your child up for a gymnastics class
  • Do a gardening project; it's a great learning situation and your kids may even want to eat the veggies they grow
  • Learn how to jump rope
  • Play frisbee

Kids Ages 12 and Up

  • Make up dances for the kids to do
  • Have the kids help you with yard work
  • Pay the kids an allowance to help walk the dog
  • Take the kids rollerblading in your neighborhood or to a skating rink
  • Play badminton as a family

It's always important to set a good example for your children. If you're sitting on the couch and watching tv, they will too. It's great to take a walk as a family.

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