The exercise habits children build during their early years can set the foundation for the rest of their lives; the American Heart Association recommends regular activity from the age of two. If your kids are parked in front of the television or a video game and reluctant to get up, you may need to create a reward system to get them moving. By giving them proper motivation and showing them exercise can be fun, you can instill in your kids a love of fitness that will keep them healthy throughout their lives.
Step 1
Create a chart that shows a child's progress in a format that is fun and easy to understand. Allow your child to pick out a set of stickers or a stamp in the shape of his favorite cartoon character. Each time he participates in something active or accomplishes a fitness goal, like running around the track once without stopping, let him put a sticker on the chart. According to the Kids Rock Stars program, the fun of seeing the number of stamps or stickers growing can be enough to motivate your children to keep going.
Step 2
Allow your kids to join a team or an exercise class that they've always wanted to try; the fun of the practice will be its own reward for the exercise they will get during each practice or session. Bring up sports that sound slightly foreign and exciting to motivate them: karate, tae kwon do, ballet, figure skating or even snowboarding, depending on your location.
Step 3
Plan a fun family outing as an award for kids who get out from behind the computer or television and get outside to be active. Allow your kids to choose the activity, as long as it gets everyone up and moving. ShapeUp America recommends that you go in-line skating or do something that involves even more of your family, like playing a big game of baseball or basketball. Consider other activities like hiking, biking, swimming, or heading to a nearby water park.
Step 4
Buy equipment and toys that encourage your kids to be active. Instead of buying them a video game, for example, purchase a trampoline or a basketball hoop. Choose items that your children will be excited to use, and take time to use it with them to demonstrate healthy habits as a family.
Step 5
Train for an active family trip together. Involve your kids in planning a schedule that will prepare everyone for an active trip like hiking up a mountain or taking a skiing vacation. Each day, check off the training activities you have completed. The promise of a vacation and accomplishing a goal will get your kids motivated to keep moving.
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