According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, young people between ages 6 and 17 should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day. Unfortunately, not all kids are getting the exercise they need. In fact, most don’t. Only one in three children in the U.S. is active every day, and the average child is spending around seven and a half hours per day watching TV or using a computer or tablet. Increased screen time and a lack of exercise can lead to serious health issues, like obesity.
However, there are solutions that can help keep your kids moving and encourage an active and healthy lifestyle. Here are some fun classes that your child might want to sign up for.
Team Sports
There’s nothing quite like playing on a team sport as a child. These types of activities allow kids to make new friends and learn about the value of teamwork. Soccer, softball, t-ball, basketball, and football are all especially popular for young children.
After-School Programs
If you’re pressed for time and need extended hours for childcare, why not look into your child’s after-school programs? Many schools offer activities before and after school hours, so your kids can get homework help, participate in arts and crafts activities, and get some playtime, too.
Mommy and Me Exercise Classes
For younger children, you may want to look into classes built for adults and their children. Take your child to yoga or sign up for a Zumba class. This is a great way to help children start exercising early, and it can also help them make new friends, too.
Gymnastics for Kids
The benefits of gymnastic classes are numerous when it comes to what they can teach your kids. Children learn how to balance, build upper and lower body strength, and get a fun workout, too. Tumbling classes are great for little ones, and older students might focus on becoming gymnasts or learning skills that will help them in other sports. Look for local gymnastics classes and ask about how your child can enroll.
Is gymnastics right for your child, or do your kids play on team sports? How will you help your children get active? Let us know in the comments.
