Kids often become sedentary with the temptation of television, video games and junk food. As a parent, it is your responsibility to help your kids get the 60 minutes of daily physical activity as recommended by the President's Council on Physical Fitness. While you don't need to sign your kids up for a gym membership, you can find easy ways to sneak exercise into your kids' lives, and make sure they stay active and healthy.
Daily Schedule
The American Heart Association points out that it's a good idea to schedule tome for physical activity every day. Instead of having your children come home directly from school to work on homework, take a break from the structure and monotony by giving them an hour to play outside. They'll burn off some energy, stay fit and come inside, ready to focus on dinner and then homework.
Family Activities
Talking to your kids about physical activity should not exempt your from participating yourself. Family activities are an ideal way to enjoy exercise all together. Hikes through a nearby conservation area, a night at the community pool or a family game of tag outside are all easy ways to sneak in exercise into your daily routines. Choose one night a week as family activity night, and choose something that gets you out of the house and feeling active.
Video Games
Video games are traditionally considered to be the enemy of all physical activity. But your gaming kids can use their systems to exercises every day, according to KidsWorld.com. Games like "Dance Dance Revolution" and "Wii Fit" encourage them to get off of the couch and using their bodies, while still providing the same stimulation that an exciting and challenging video game would.
Team Sports
Your child's school likely offers team sports and physical education as part of the curriculum. Take advantage of the opportunity this gives your children by urging them to try out for football, basketball, gymnastics or other sports their school offers. You can also see what sports your community has to offer; you may be able to find kids' leagues for your kids to join as a way to be more active.
Active Toys
The next time your child's birthday rolls around, avoid giving her things that will cause her to be sedentary in order to play with. Dolls and books all have their place, but if you're serious about exercises, try giving her fitness-related gifts like hula hoops, a trampoline or jump ropes. These encourage her to exercises while still enjoying herself.
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