Children naturally have lots of energy and a desire to be active. As parents and educators we need to foster this innate joy in movement as we know that it can all too easily be dampened by television and sedentary, indoor play. Large numbers of the recent generations of children are growing up sluggish and overweight but by being active with our children we can build a positive attitude to exercise which will last them a lifetime.

How can I make our busy lives into Active Lives?

There are many ways that you and your child can be active without travelling far or spending money. Walking is excellent exercise and easy to do. Any short journeys that you and your child usually make in the car could be done on foot and your child will enjoy exploring your local area. We live in a beautiful part of the world and lovely nature walks are on our doorstep. Go for a walk in the countryside with your child and talk about the flora and fauna that you encounter.

Local swimming pools will have classes specifically designed for children where your child can have fun splashing around and learn valuable skills for life. This is also a good opportunity to socialise with other like-minded, active parents with children of a similar age.

Consider dance or ‘music and movement’ classes. Children really enjoy moving rhythmically to the music and have lots of fun being active with a group of children their own age.

Ball games in the garden or park improve children’s hand-eye coordination and gross motor skills as well as their talents in collaboration and teamwork. Take a picnic to the park and involve the whole family in a game of catch or a kick about. Challenge your child with balls of different sizes to throw and catch. Play the games that you remember enjoying as a child; the old ones are usually the best!

Involve your child in work around the house. Cleaning, decorating and gardening are all vigorous activities that children will enjoy.

When looking for a nursery, consider their enthusiasm for being active. Do they have access to large outdoor activities and talk about the walks that the children have been on? Do the children seem energetic and purposeful rather than lethargic and listless? Does the nursery offer music and movement sessions for the children to teach them about how their bodies work and what they can do with them?

Above all, make sure that whatever you do, you are having fun! Fun is what turns being active into a way of life.