Getting Kids off the Couch
Our world today revolves around the latest technology in the form of smartphones, tablets, and video game systems. Big name companies compete to bring us the latest and greatest technology and it not only has an affect on adults, but children as well.
Children today are growing up in a completely different world than it was 20 years ago. There are first graders with cell phones, teens who would rather text than talk, and video games with incredibly lifelike graphics. The lure of these video games is especially strong in children and teens and brings with it the problem of little or no outside activity in this age group. As parents, it’s important to know how to get your children involved in something other than staring at a TV screen or holding a game controller all day long.
Create a routine – A daily routine can help your child get rid of bad habits and instill some discipline in the whole family. Talk to your child about getting on a schedule and let them be involved in creating a routine that works for all of you. Limit the amount of time your child is in front of the television, on the Internet, or on his/her cell phone and stick to it. Make a trip to the park or a walk outside part of your daily routine. If it’s too hot outside, play a game of tag or hide and seek just to get yourself and your child moving. Small daily steps can help to break some bad habits and lead you into a new way of life.
Be the example – Parents can set a great example for their children if they are active in their daily routine. If your child sees you exercising or spending more time outside than in front of the television they will most likely follow your example as they grow older. It may take a little bit of nudging to get them to put the cell phone down but it will happen. Likewise, if you are a couch potato, or have your nose stuck in the computer all day they will be more apt to follow in your footsteps. Be the person that you would want your child to be. If you keep that in mind, it won’t be hard to set good habits in motion for the whole family.
Find activities your child will enjoy – This can be anything from organized sports to a daily trip to the local gym. Talk to your child about getting involved in school activities in the fall that will keep them moving. If he or she isn’t much of a sports fanatic, there are plenty of other ways to keep them active. Swimming, or simply blasting some music and dancing around the living room are great ways to keep in shape and have fun while doing it.
It may take some time to establish a routine that works for you and your family but don’t give up. Make small changes on a daily basis to get your child used to any form of daily activity. Pretty soon, a trip to the park or playing ball outside will be the new norm instead of coming home to play video games or surf the Internet. Making small daily changes not only forms better habits in your child, but in your whole family.