Here are some suggestions for encouraging your child, no matter what his or her age.
- Do your Own Exercise. A research study showed that in families where both parents were active, 95 percent of the children were active. ( Even if you aren't as fit as you'd like to be, don't worry; your encouragement still makes a difference.)
- Teach your child the sports or activities you know, and try to develop additional skills to pass on to him or her.
- Emphasize that physical activity is a fun adventure, and avoid making negative comments about performance.
- Encourage your child's school to make time for fun, age-appropriate physical activity taught by a knowledgeable instructor.
The Right Stuff
Whether your child participates in physical education classes or extracurricular sports or movement classes, look for an instructor who does the following:
- Designs activities to accommodate students of varying physical characteristics and ability levels and uses appropriate movements for the age range he or she is teaching.
- Nurtures each child as an individual and provides a noncompetitive environment.
- Educates kids about fitness and healthy living.
- Has a plan for the class but knows how to improvise if the plan obviously isn't working.
- Is educated about emergency protocol and safety issues.
Looking For A Program
To find kids fitness programs in your community, contact your local YMCA or check your local Yellow Pages under Athletic Organizations, Camps, Clubs, Gymnasiums, Recreation Centers and Youth Organizations and Centers. Finally, don't forget to ask other parents, friends and neighbors; they are often the best source of local information.
Source
IDEA Health & Fitness Association,. Family Fun and Fitness Brochure.
