Have you noticed a change in the amount of time your children are involved in outdoor play compared to when you were a child? For most of us the answer is yes, mainly due to the advancement of all things electronic that require a power point to connect into. But it doesn't have to be that way. If your child is a couch potato then here are a few suggestions for getting them away from the television and outside again.
It is a good idea to make outdoor play time a regular part of your child's daily routine. Have them go outside for a minimum half an hour as soon as they get home from school. Let them know that the Play Station and Xbox will be available to them only after they have had their outdoor play time. If you are consistent and disciplined with this rule your children will adapt quickly.
Of course outdoor play by yourself is not much fun. If your child doesn't have siblings then encourage friends to come over. But don't forget that Moms and Dads make great playmates too. Think of it as part of your daily fitness regime. Not only will you benefit healthwise, you will also be making time to talk to and be with your child on a regular basis. Teach them how to play some of the games that you grew up playing. Trust me when I say your child will love you for it.
Having equipment to play with in the backyard will help encourage children outdoors but doesn't need to be expensive either. For pre-schoolers a sandpit will keep them occupied for hours. Older children enjoy ball games, bikes, skipping ropes and hopscotch. If you have the room, a trampoline, swing set or basketball hoop are great entertainers. There are also games like hide-and-seek that require no equipment, just imagination.
We all know that outdoor play is important for a child's development both physically and emotionally but it won't happen unless we are willing to make some changes. Let's make it a priority to get our children enjoying the fresh air again and we will all reap the benefits.
Janeene is a mother and web publisher with a family focus. Check out her latest websites about swing sets for kids and masks for halloween for information on keeping your kids entertained.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Janeene_Baker
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment