Last Updated on August 14, 2020 by Ellen Christian
Wondering how to get children physically involved outdoors? Most of the time, you can find the kids on the couch or in their rooms connected to some sort of electronic device. It might be their phones, a game system, or the television. But, chances are they aren’t outside being active.
Posts may be sponsored. This post contains affiliate links, which means I will make a commission at no extra cost to you should you click through and make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Get Children Physically Involved Outdoors
As the beautiful weather makes its way back to Vermont, I find myself spending more time outside in the sunshine and fresh air. I also find myself sending the kids outside to move more and more often. I know that I feel better when I’m active and I want my kids to experience that as well. So, remember that habits children develop when they are young are more likely to be habits that they enjoy as adults.
How do I get my kid to exercise?
One of the best things you can do to get kids physically involved outdoors is to be physically involved yourself. You should set a good example for the kids. If they see you and your husband exercising, they’ll want to as well. Why not see if there is a sport at school they might want to join? Team sports like basketball and baseball are great ways to get active. Or, if your child is an introvert, they may want to sign up for track or the swim team.
One of the easiest ways to get physically involved outdoors is to go for a walk with your kids. You can make a game of it and identify trees or plants you find on your walk or if you live in the city, count different colors of cars or trucks. If you’re close enough, try walking on some of your errands instead of driving.
If your kids are older, try engaging them in a conversation about something that’s important in their lives. Listen to their music. Walk to one of their favorite activities or to the park so they can skateboard.
You don’t need expensive outdoor equipment to get your kids physically involved outdoors. You can toss a ball back and forth or throw a frisbee. If you have a sidewalk and some chalk, you can play hopscotch. Try jump rope or hula hoops because those will definitely get you moving.
Physical activities for kids
If you have the room, you can put up a basketball hoop, a swing set, a skate ramp or a volleyball net. If you don’t have the room or the money to do this, you can go down to a local park or playground and use the equipment there. Our school has a basketball hoop, baseball field, tetherball, and all sorts of slides, swings and climbing apparatus to play on that’s free to use when school is not in session. So, check yours out.
If you’re wondering how to get kids physically involved when you don’t have equipment at home, keep reading. The playground at the beach has a swing set, hopscotch and a volleyball area that’s open during the warmer months. Of course, you can always go swimming too or just take a long walk on the beach with your kids.
Ways to promote physical activity
You should get outside and get the children physically involved. You should try to find well-maintained hiking trails, public parks, and outdoor areas that you can visit. An active lifestyle starts with one step. So, don’t expect your child to become physically active overnight if they aren’t right now. Lifestyle changes take time. but, you can encourage them by being active with them. So, tempt them with activities they’ll enjoy.
Get children physically involved in these activities
So, here are a few you can consider doing with your kids or teens. See which ones they’ll enjoy the most so they are more likely to say yes. Remember, to get children physically involved they should have fun. So, you should encourage an activity the kids will enjoy.
- Hiking
- Camping
- Skateboarding
- Dancing
- Self-defense classes
- Basketball or baseball
- Rollerblading
- Bike riding
- Cross country skiing
- Washing the car
- Mowing the lawn
- Raking leaves
Ellen is a busy mom of a 24-year-old son and 29-year-old daughter. She owns six blogs and is addicted to social media. She believes that it doesn’t have to be difficult to lead a healthy life. She shares simple healthy living tips to show busy women how to lead fulfilling lives. If you’d like to work together, email info@confessionsofanover-workedmom.com to chat.
