Four Ways to Get Your Children Outside this Summer

Kids are getting out of school and in our digital world, many of them are more likely to be chatting online or playing video games, instead of getting outside for some physical activity. Let’s face it, kids and teens are sitting around a lot more than they used to. Too much screen time and not enough exercise adds to the problem of childhood obesity and many other problems.

Kids should get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity every day, and many of our kids are falling well short of that. When we think about fitness, we imagine working out in the gym, running on a treadmill, or lifting weights.

But for kids, exercise means playing and being physically active. Kids exercise when they play a sport, throw a ball or frisbee, go to dance class, ride bikes or play tag. So shut the TV, power down the cell phones and get your kids moving. We’ve got four great ideas to inspire your kids to go outdoors for some fun and fitness this summer.

Jupiterimages
Jupiterimages
1
Hit the Beach
One of the greatest things about living in New Jersey is access to over 130 miles of sandy, sunny coast. Everyone loves the beach, and the incentive to get lost in the waves and sand is not so easily resisted by younger kids. Spending the day at the beach with plenty of summer activities and fun things to do is a great way to get your little tikes moving.
Azurita
Azurita
2
Encourage Playing Outside
For most of us who remember the joys of playing with Legos and Barbies, we can agree that children love toys. Encourage outside activities by persuading your kids to pick out outdoor equipment rather than that new videogame or “inside” toy. Sports balls, frisbees, jump rope, anything that can be used outside will encourage your kid to play with their toy from sunup to sundown. Get them involved in activities such as team sports or camp to keep them moving.
EduardMoldoveanuPhotography
EduardMoldoveanuPhotography
3
Go Exploring
The backyard can be fun, but sometimes it’s interesting to take the family out somewhere they’ve never been before. Plan a family trip to a park or place unfamiliar, and spend the day exploring. Revitalize your kid’s love for the outdoors by sparking their curiosity and letting them venture to new frontiers.
Halfpoint
Halfpoint
4
Lead By Example
Of course, our children learn best when following the ones they know as the best-of-the-best when it comes to...well...everything. Spend time regularly outdoors with your kids and they’ll start to adopt their own interest for outside based off of yours. Leading by example is one of the best ways to get your kids outside and have them want to stay outside. What kid doesn’t want to follow in their parent’s footsteps, after all?