Issue Date: January 4, 2004
To shape up, kids need a hand
Parents, engineer daily activity.
It isn't enough to tell kids, "Go exercise." You must get them moving.
Here are some ways to put 30 minutes of activity into your child's day. No matter what you choose, be sure you lead by example: Get yourself moving!
Preschoolers. Teach that exercise is fun. Video is an easy tool; my toddler likes to bend, twist and hop with Sesame Street's "Elmocize," an old release that caters to short attention spans. Also, a workout ball safely improves balance.
Ages 5 to 8. Help develop basic motor skills with family activities. Pick bicycling for balance, in-line skating for coordination, dance for free movement and swimming for stamina. Expose kids at these ages to as many physical activities as you can, and see what they like -- and what you like doing with them. Eventually, as their confidence grows, they will discover what activities they enjoy most.
Ages 9 to 12. Try a simple family hike to develop endurance and love of the outdoors. Neighborhood soccer, softball and basketball help improve teamwork and leadership. Racket sports sharpen hand-eye coordination.
Teens. Martial arts and yoga are very hot. Most gyms are lowering age requirements to reach out to teens.
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