For Immediate Release            

Four Corners Health Department, serving Butler, Polk, Seward, and York Counties

Contact Vicki L. Duey, 402-362-2621 or toll free 877-337-3573

Date:  July 14, 2011

Title: Motivating Kids to be Active

At a very young age, children develop the habits and behaviors that can affect their life-long health.  As they grow, finding the time for planned physical exercise can be a challenge.  As parents and caregivers, you can help your children set healthy routines that will last into adulthood. 

When children are physically active, the benefits include strong muscles and bones, weight control, less risk of developing type 2 diabetes, better sleep, and a better outlook on life.  Healthy and fit kids also are more likely to be motivated, alert, and successful in school. 

There is much to gain from regular physical activity, but how do you encourage kids to do it?

• Choose the right games and sports for the child’s age.  If you don’t, the child may be bored or frustrated.
• Give kids plenty of opportunity to keep moving.  Take them to playgrounds, go for walks, or help them get involved in local sports and fitness opportunities.
• Keep the focus on fun.  Kids more likely will do something they enjoy.  When kids have fun with exercise, they want to do more of it.  Practicing a skill, whether it’s swimming or riding a tricycle, improves their abilities and their confidence.
• Give positive and encouraging feedback. Adults can help children realize they are improving by making comments on how they have improved and by praising their efforts.

Overall, a positive attitude from parents and caregivers can help a child be interested in getting more exercise.  Be involved in fitness yourself and support your child’s interests.  If you start this early enough, your child will see physical activity as a normal and fun part of your family’s everyday routine. 

Contact Four Corners Health Department for more information on ways to make fitness fun.  We all can have a part leading kids to a lifetime of fitness and better choices. To reach Four Corners Health Department, call 402-362-2621 or toll free at 877-337-3573 or visit the website at www.fourcorners.ne.gov.