Ideas to Get Your Kids Moving

It’s no secret that kids need a healthy amount of exercise, but during the school year, it often seems like there’s not enough time in the day to set aside for kids to get moving. As obesity rates rise, though, the benefits of physical play for children have become more critical than ever. Fortunately, there are things you can do to make exercise fun and exciting for your kids! Use these tips to get your kids off the couch this school year.

1. Encourage Playtime in the Home Every Day

It doesn’t always take much to get your kids moving. If you already spend time playing with your kids every day, find a way to weave physical activity into your playtime with games such as obstacle course races around the house, hide and seek, follow the leader or catch. You can even weave physical activity into your children’s everyday activities — for example, have an impromptu dance party as they fold laundry or jog in place as they wait for the bus.

2. Get Them Involved in Sports

If your kids aren’t already involved in an array of after-school activities, what better way to get them moving than by getting them involved in sports? Team sports, cheerleading, gymnastics, swimming or yoga gets your kids moving while they enjoy spending time with their peers. Contact your kids’ school or look into local organizations for more information on available local options.

3. Find Motion-Controlled Games  

If your children are like most other kids across the country, they likely spend hours a week playing video games. Turn this time into an opportunity for exercise by finding a gaming system and compatible games that involve movement. An Xbox with a Kinect motion sensor, a Wii or a Nintendo Switch can all provide opportunities for kids to get up and move during their game time, while games like Wii Fit, 1-2-Switch and Just Dance Kids encourage total body movement. 

4. Try a Fun Creative Activity

Of course, the best way to get your kids excited about their physical activity is to get them out of the house and take them somewhere fun! Encourage your kids to start moving by engaging them in activities such as laser tag or roller skating. Offer to bring one or two friends along to maximize the fun. They’ll have such a great time that they’ll forget they’re even exercising! 

Get Your Kids Moving at Carlisle Sports Emporium 
It can be hard to find a place in Central PA to take your kids for a fun activity since many convenient locations close for the chilly fall and winter months. But at Carlisle Sports Emporium, you can enjoy a day of fun no matter what time of year! We’re open year-round to help you keep the kids moving on either a sunny summer afternoon or a drizzly winter weekend. With exciting indoor and outdoor entertainment options, your kids will be begging you to bring them back!

Visit us today or contact us to book your family’s next adventure at Carlisle Sports Emporium!