Families

Make Family Time an Active Time

Did you know that being physically active every day...

increases fitness levels and keeps the heart and lungs healthy
builds and maintains healthy bones, muscles and joints
helps control weight to decrease the risk of many diseases
boosts energy and promotes sound sleep
helps you feel good about yourself and happier in general

Kids are naturally physically active, but you can help them stay that way by encouraging movement as a way to stay healthy. Adults need at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days, and kids need at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day of the week.

Make it easy to be active by planning activities for the whole family to enjoy two or three times a month. Take a family bike ride, plant and tend a gardening project, walk at a nearby park, or hike a new trail. Ramp up the physical activity of household chores by mowing or raking the lawn together, dancing to music while cleaning the house, or walking the dog together each day. Ask you children to help plan the activities.

Set a good example. Make a regular date to walk with friends and neighbors so kids and adults can enjoy each other's company or participate in a community activity like a fun run or group aerobics class. Learn how to do the things your kids do, such as inline skating, rollerblading, riding a scooter, playing soccer or swimming - and then do them together.

Move more and sit less. Reduce the amount of your family's TV watching by substituting choices that increase active play. Keep a list of fun, alternative activities posted on the refrigerator or on the TV to inspire a change in behavior. Take time to tour a local museum, zoo or historic site, and enjoy walking and talking as a family as you and your kids learn something new.

Make play safe by creating an area in your home where kids can be active without hurting themselves or causing damage to household items. Always provide safety gear when needed, like a helmet, pads or goggles.

As a role model for young people in your life, you play an important role in making sure that kids are moving every day. As a family, make a list of activities you can start doing right away and post the list in a prominent place as a reminder to get and stay active.

If you have an idea for a family activity that you would like to see at your Central Family YMCA, please do not hesitate to contact:

Erin Kennedy

Teen & Family Services Director

336/721-2100 ext. 2150

e.kennedy@ymcanwnc.org