Why Physical Activity is Important?
Physically active children tend to grow up to be physically active adults. A lifetime of physical activity can lead to better health. Parents can help their children be more physically active by making activity an important part of family life. Limit television and computer time. Make it a priority to spend time with your child by going outside, walking, sledding, playing catch, building a snowman, biking, swimming, playing at the park, and even doing chores together. Children learn from their parents the joy and fun of physical activity by doing it together.
Regular Physical Activity
- Helps reduce the chances of developing obesity.
- Helps reduce the chances of developing chronic diseases that can last a lifetime, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.
- Helps build and maintain healthy bones and muscles.
- Promotes mental and emotional well-being.
- Reduces feelings of depression and anxiety.
- May help improve students’ academic performance, including
- academic achievement and grades
- factors that influence academic achievement, such as focus in the classroom.
8.5 x 11 |
8.5 x 11 |
11 x 17
8.5 x 11 |
8.5 x 11 |
11 x 17
One Hour of Play, Every Day
To feel great and maintain a healthy weight, school-age children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Preschool-age children should be active thoughout each day. Physical activity is anything that gets your heart pumping or makes you stronger. These recommendations come from health leaders at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. For more information about these recommendations, visit the webpages for the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans or the Youth Physical Activity Guidelines.
What Can You Do?
To help your child hit the 60-minute mark, come up with fun ways to add a little more activity for the whole family. It doesn’t matter what it looks like – an organized soccer match or a game of tag with mom or dad at the park. Finding ways to add a little more activity to every day can mean big health benefits for your children. Try one of these activities for your family.
