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The American
Council on Exercise, recommends the following ten activities
for children to stay active, healthy and busy during the warmer
summer and fall weather.
1. Soccer: This highly active game involving
both agility and teamwork has grown increasingly popular in the
US in recent years. To keep kids injury free, be sure they are
geared up in appropriate protective equipment, such as shin guards.
Soccer players should also wear shoes with cleats or ribbed soles
to prevent slipping.
2. Martial Arts: With a variety of forms to choose from,
martial arts are a great way to get kids involved in a sport that
involves strength, coordination and mental discipline. Proper
training and equipment to prevent injury are a must.
3. Bike Riding: Bicycle riding is a fun activity for the
whole family. Experts suggest children ride on sidewalks and paths
until they are at least 10 years old, show good riding skills
and are able to follow the rules of the road. Helmets, of course,
are a necessity for both children and adults.
4. Swimming: Nothing beats splashing around a pool
with friends, and swimming offers the benefits of a full-body
workout for both young and old. The American Academy of Pediatrics
recommends swimming lessons for children ages 4 and up, although
classes are available for babies and toddlers as well.
5. Basketball: Whether it's a round of HORSE, a game of
one on one, or a full-court competition, basketball is ideal for
developing hand/eye coordination and teamwork. Encourage children
under the age of seven to use a smaller foam or rubber ball, and
lower the height of the basket if possible.
6. Obstacle courses: Challenge kids to use a variety of
different skills by setting up an obstacle course at the park
using playground equipment or other items, such as jump ropes,
balls and cones.
7. Dancing: Whether your kids like ballet or hip-hop, dancing
encourages them to be creative and move their bodies freely. For
video arcade fans, an innovative new game challenges opponents
to follow a dance routine while watching the video. Kids can spend
time learning new moves while also getting a great workout.
8. Board Sports: Whether snowboarding in the winter, surfing
in the summer, or skateboarding year-round, kids love to be on
the board. Injury risk, however, is higher for these sports. For
both snowboarding and skateboarding, kids should wear helmets
to prevent head injuries, and surfers or boogie-boarders should
always be accompanied by an adult.
9. Jumping rope: Jumping rope is still a favorite on most
playgrounds. Whether alone or in a group, jumping rope challenges
both coordination and stamina.
10. Ice-skating/Inline-skating: Ice-skating, inline-skating
and hockey can be both fun and safe as long as appropriate protective
gear such as a helmet, wrist guards and kneepads are worn. Hockey
players should wear a helmet with foam lining and a full-face
mask, a mouth guard, pads for shoulders, knees, elbows and shins,
as well as gloves.
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