How to Get Kids Involved in Physical Activity & Games

Getting your kids to be physically active can be quite challenging because many kids spend a lot of time sedentary in front of the computer, television or video game console. Kids who exercise have strong muscles and bones and are less likely to become overweight or develop high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. Exercise doesn't have to mean working out in a gymnasium. Physical fitness in kids can be stimulated through a variety of activities and games.

Instructions

• 1

  Choose age-appropriate physical activities for your child. Allow preschoolers to develop their fundamental skills by running and kicking or throwing a ball. Play tag with them or a game of follow the leader. Get school-age kids involved in games they enjoy such as baseball, soccer or basketball. Let teenagers experience the gym, school sports and after-school activities such as skateboarding.

• 2

  Encourage your child to get involved in games and activities they enjoy and are good at. According to the Kids Health website, if a child is good at a certain activity, he will be more interested and committed to participating.

• 3

  Schedule daily physical activities and games into your child's regular daily routine at an early age. Make it a habit so that she is less likely to skip it and that she gets used to it.

• 4

  Set a good example for your child and stay physically active. Establish a healthy lifestyle. Avoid becoming a couch potato because this will not set a good example for your child.

• 5

  Limit the amount of time you allow your child to watch television. Get your child to watch play-along programs when they do watch television so they stay mentally and physically stimulated.

• 6

  Get involved in your child's physical activities and games. Take your child to the park, go for walks with your child, and dance, sing and play games with your child in order to keep him active. Organize group activities and games with other children and their parents. Make physical activity a fun experience.