In a world where many parents are trying to pry their children away from video games or television so that they can get some exercise, having an active child can seem like an advantage. In many ways, it is. Kids who get regular exercise are less likely to become obese and have a lower risk for serious health conditions, including high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes. But finding activities to keep your active child busy can sometimes be a challenge.
Everyday Activities
Since active kids need to move, look for ways to make their everyday duties more active by combining your child's to-do list with action, suggests the Mayo Clinic. For instance, if your child is writing a report for school, bike or walk to the library together to gather information. Take a walk around the block while you review vocabulary words or multiplication tables instead of sitting at the table. Give your child active chores, such as watering the vegetable garden or sweeping the floors, instead of chores that require her to sit still.
Outdoor Activities
Active children thrive outdoors, and they can usually find plenty of ways to burn off energy without parental assistance. One of the best things parents can do for active kids during outdoor play is to encourage them to do activities that help them build the three elements of fitness--endurance, strength and flexibility, according to KidsHealth.org, the online health information resource for parents and families maintained by the Nemours Foundation. To boost endurance, encourage your child to try aerobic activities, such as basketball, running, biking or skating. Good strength-building activities for kids include gymnastics--such as handstands--climbing and crossing monkey bars. To build flexibility, encourage your child to try activities that let him bend and stretch, such as turning cartwheels and practicing splits.
Indoor Activities
Keeping active kids entertained indoors can be a challenge for parents. Elizabeth Petree, a Nashville-based fitness coordinator, recommends in Family Fun magazine that parents borrow ideas from the gym to entertain active kids who are stuck indoors. Crank up your favorite music and show off your best dance moves for an impromptu cardio session. If you have stairs, encourage your children to use the bottom step to practice step aerobics moves. Collect plastic cans, bottles and jars for a kid-friendly weight lifting session.
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