With video games, computer games, DVDs and flat screen TVs all competing for your child's attention, it may be a challenge to make sure he gets enough physical exercise. But encouraging exercise and outdoor play may be one of the most important things you can do for him. According to the American Heart Association, increased physical activity has been associated with increased life expectancy and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. In addition, physical activity is directly tied to improvements in well-being, including increased confidence and self-esteem.
Coin-Drop Race
To set up for a relay-style race that requires both fast legwork and precise aim, you will need two egg cartons with the lids removed, two bowls containing 20 pennies each, and a clearly-marked starting line and turn-back point. Divide children into two teams, and place the egg cartons halfway between the starting line and turn-back point. Place bowls with pennies at the turn-back point. Have the teams form lines at the starting line; when you call out "Go!" one player from each team sprints to the turn-back point, picks up a penny from her team's bowl, and races to her team's egg carton, where she has only one chance to drop the penny into the carton without lowering her hand below waist height. When she returns to the starting line, the next runner is off. The winning team is the first team to get at least one penny into each of the egg carton's cups. This game, recommended by Family Fun, promotes speed, fine motor skills, aim and team spirit.
Topple the Castle
To set up for this action-packed game, you will need five pairs of balled socks for each player, some sidewalk chalk, and some light, stackable items such as cardboard boxes, plastic storage boxes, or pizza boxes. Each player draws a large circle about 6 feet in diameter, then uses the stackables as building blocks to construct a "castle" in the center. At the command "Fire cannonballs," players have two minutes to topple each other's castles with the socks. Family Fun notes that players must remain in their circles, while simultaneously throwing cannonballs, trying to block incoming volleys, and rebuilding their castles if they fall. The player with the tallest castle standing at the end of two minutes wins. This game promotes good aim, agility, and reflexes.
Bike Photo Safari
This activity, recommended by Family Education, combines the cardiovascular benefits of bicycle riding with the artistic challenge of photography. Each participant is given a disposable camera and a list of objects and locations in the neighborhood that must be located and photographed. After the photos are developed, they can be displayed and judged for accuracy as well as quality; you can give small prizes and awards for Most Artistic Picture, Most Colorful Picture, Blurriest Picture, and Most Items Photographed. Family Education notes that all participants should have a bike helmet and be well-versed in bike safety rules.
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