Ways to Support an Active Lifestyle

Do not assume activity means exercise, or sports. Being active simply means moving - walking, playing, gardening, dancing, tennis, cycling... the list is endless!

Help your family see how being active can fit into everyday life - use the stairs instead of the elevator, get off the bus a block or two earlier, etc.

Think about times during the day when you can trade inactive times for more active ones.

Limit unnecessary sitting time. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than one to two hours of television watching per day for children between the ages 2 and 11. Watch television only if it’s your favorite show.

Exercise while you are watching television. See who can do the most situps or pushups during a commercial break.

Get the entire family involved with yard work, washing the car, shoveling snow and so on.

Involve your extended family and friends in your activities.

Emphasize fun, not skill.

It’s important to choose activities you and your children enjoy!

Buy birthday and holiday presents that promote movement, such as Frisbees, balls and skates.

Plan parties and vacations around movement and play.

Volunteer for physical activity events at your child’s school.

Think habits, not exercise.

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