Encouraging Exercise in Toddlers
Exercise is important for everyone, from young children through senior citizens. Even young toddlers are often happy to sit in front of a television, however, and it is important to get them moving. There are many different activities and strategies that you can use to get your little one to exercise.
Playgrounds
Your child can get a lot of exercise in a playground. Take your toddler to playgrounds on a regular basis. Look for playgrounds where he or she can run around a lot. Do not just retreat to watch your child, but instead join in to encourage him or her to run, jump, skip and climb. Visit various playgrounds to keep it interesting.
Sports
Even toddlers can play some sports with you. Toddlers love to kick a ball around in a game of soccer. You don’t need to take score, you can just have fun seeing who can get the ball. You can also play a fun game of tag. They make small basketball nets and baseball sets aimed at very small children as well.
Games
You can exercise as part of a game. For instance, play a game of Simon Says where you tell him or her to do jumping jacks or run in place. You can play Duck Duck Goose and have him or her running around the entire house.
Dancing
Your child and you can enjoy a dance party and get exercise without even realizing it. Put on some fast beat kids’ music and get moving! You can even buy a disco ball to make it very festive.
Miscellaneous
There are many other activities that can encourage your toddler to get exercise. You can take him on a bicycle ride. He or she might enjoy a pair of roller skates. Also, children model what their parents do. If you exercise regularly, he or she might want to join in. If you lift weights, for instance, you can get your toddler a one pound weight or have him or her lift a water bottle to emulate your moves.
Products
There are many products for toddlers that incorporate exercise. They even make little exercise bicycles. They also make exercise videos for kids. Look around to see what might help encourage your little one to exercise.
It is important to instill a love of exercising even in young children. When they get used to it while they are young, they may be more likely to continue it in the future. Try one or more of the above strategies to accomplish this goal.