Keeping Kids Active During School Breaks
By Stephen R. Farris
Here's something to think about if you have kids in elementary school, high school or college. After the holidays, just when parents think they'll have a break -- boom -- spring break will be upon us. Yes, the countdown will begin after Jan. 1.
Then the cycle begins again as schools let out for the summer. During these times, kids usually spend their leisure time catching up on their favorite television shows, watching videos or playing games all day long instead of getting outside to enjoy the bounties of nature.
With all of this leisure time and inactivity, kids sometimes tend to eat less healthy and snack on junk food. This combination can leave them feeling drained and sluggish and not wanting to do anything physically.
But there are remedies that can help your child be more active during the holidays, spring break and summer break.
Do as I Do
Remember that old saying, "Do as I say, not as I do?" While there is some truth to that, kids usually take the other route and do as you do. Mimic, so to speak. So for their sake, and yours too, if they see you're trying to keep fit by walking, jogging or cycling outdoors, or maybe exercising to videos indoors, then chances are they will get interested in what you're doing and take initiative to do the same. Sort of reverse psychology.
Make Family Time Fun Time
If the weather is less than perfect and staying indoors is the only option, then plan to do some fun, active games inside. Most video game consoles have attachments that can turn your TV into a living room bowling alley or golf course even if you have the software to play them with. There's gaming software that allows you to play tennis too. The list is long and it will keep everyone entertained and active for hours.
Get Them Involved in Sports
Local youth organizations usually have team sports throughout the school year and during the summertime too. Not only will it be good for kids to participate in them for the physical aspect, it also will help them socially as well. Even if they don't care much for team sports, there's plenty of individual ones they can get involved in such as martial arts, swimming, tennis and track.
Talk with you local chiropractor to see what they could suggest to get your child started to a healthier lifestyle. They can also guide you to their nutritional needs and overall health and well-being too.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Flagstaff, Ariz.