“Let’s Move! Active Schools”

Recently Michelle Obama announced a new initiative called “Let’s Move! Active Schools.” This is a program that coincides with her initial campaign, “Let’s Move!” to get kids more physically active during school hours. Many schools are seeing a decrease in funding for their physical education programs, therefore creative solutions are needed to preserve daily playtime and movement. Studies have shown that physical activity in children has decreased in the past decade. With the launch of her new website www.letsmoveschools.org, the First Lady is impassioned to change the childhood-obesity epidemic and current way of life

Here are some ideas to help jumpstart activity in your kids in and out of school:

Talk with teachers and principals– Some school officials may not know about this program as it is so new. Spreading the word is the only way to let people know what they can do to become an “active school.” By going online to the website www.letsmoveschools.org, teachers can get free lesson plans and ideas to add movement into their lesson plans and also apply for grants for their school!

Teach the importance of exercise– Some children don’t like to participate in certain activities and games because they are apprehensive if they’re not as athletic as other children. The competition of sports at school can be intimidating. Creating a positive environment and letting your child and their teacher understand the real meaning behind exercise may increase their participation. Finding any type of movement that your child enjoys will make them feel good about themselves and increase their appreciation for working out as they grow older.

Have a family “move time”– Set aside some time at night or on the weekends to play catch or kick a soccer ball around. This family move time will foster your parent-child relationships and also keep everyone healthier and focused! Stretching at night can also settle the kids down before bed and help them get a better night’s rest.

Ask your kids what they want– We know many kids want to play computer and video games, watch TV and use their cell phones. Try to restrict these activities by setting limits. Ask your children what they would like to play outside or what kind of game they would love to do during school. Children usually find themselves fidgeting while doing homework, so work activity breaks into homework time. Or maybe they admire an exercise you participate in and they want to do it with you. Create a basic version at home that you two can participate in together. If you don’t ask, you may not know what children view as fun! Technology has created a more sedentary culture among children. It is up to you as an adult to change this around for them!

Research has shown that daily physical activity can help a child’s mind focus and be more attentive in class. If exercise is involved before and during lessons, children are more likely to be involved and interested in the subject and want to continue to be engaged while learning a new subject. This is great for their growing minds and evolving social skills. It will also lead them on the right path as young adults to continue being physically active and decrease the risk of becoming overweight, obese and developing disease.

How will you influence your child’s fun and activity today?

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