Regular physical activity—
- Helps reduce the risk of developing obesity.
- Helps reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers.
- Helps build and maintain healthy bones and muscles.
- Reduces feelings of depression and anxiety and promotes psychological well-being.
- May help improve students’ academic performance, including
- academic achievement and grades
- factors that influence academic achievement, such as concentration and attentiveness in the classroom.
Parents can help their children be more physically active by having a game plan to make physical activity an important part of family life. Limit television and computer time. Make it a priority to spend time with your child that involves going outside whenever possible. Go for walks together, go sledding, play catch, build a snowman or fort, bike ride, swim, go to the park, and even do chores together.
Children learn from parents that being physically active is fun, especially when it’s about playing and being together. Parents reap the rewards and benefits of having a healthier, happier family.