Physical Activity Is Essential Throughout Childhood

Physical Activity is Essential throughout Childhood

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©Jamie Thompson

In 2010 more than 1/3 of children and adolescents suffer from obesity. The children that suffer from obesity have a high likely hood of becoming obese adults. This occurs due to the buildup fat cells that can never be eliminated only reduced in size. Obese children are more at-risk to suffer from health problems such as asthma, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease, as well as emotional problems such as low self-esteem and poor self image.

Exercise with a friend

Physical activity is essential for the overall well being of children. It’s always easier to exercise with a friend who can give you encouragement and support. Playtime Pal is a way to encourage parents, adolescents and children to help engage in physical activity.By using a buddy system children would be more likely exercise beyond the required activity for a physical education class. Playtime Pal helps make physical activity fun so it will become an everyday routine in a child’s life.

Be Creative and Participate

Playtime Pal starts with the parents. The parents can set up play dates with their child’s friend. Come up with creative ideas, such as setting up obstacle courses or relay races. Let kids come up with own games! Remember, exercise does not have to be structured. Show your child that physical activity is fun. Parents should lead by example. Children who see their parents participate in physical activity are going to want to be physically active.

A Little Technology can Go a Long Way

Although technology is part of the blame for why children don’t exercise, don’t be afraid to incorporate a little technology into the program. You can show children that technology can go hand in hand with physical activity. For example, the Wii or Xbox Kinect has fitness games where the children don’t realize it’s made for exercising. Use GPS Technology to take a hike or have a scavenger hunt. Rather than technology being a major cause of childhood obesity it can be part of the solution.

Eating Habits

Playtime pal could also help develop healthy eating habits. Kids are known for copying one another. Parents can create meals or snacks that make eating fun. For example, cut out foods or finger foods that are healthy and provide important vitamins. If one child sees something cool and fun they’re going to want do it too. Parents can also teach their children how to cook nutritious and appealing foods. Have children take part in planning healthy meals.

Controlling the Weight Fate of Your ChildAs parents we do strive for what is best for our children. You can control the weight fate of your child. Childhood obesity is a major problem in our country. Obese children have a much greater chance of becoming obese adults. Playtime Pal is here to help prevent this outcome and help motivate children to learn the importance of physical activity as well as a healthy diet. Using a buddy system can improve the chances of your child exercising on a daily basis. Not only are we teaching children, but helping parents get more involved and encouraging and becoming more creative with playtime. Remember, friends don’t let friends sit on the couch all day.

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©Jamie Thompson

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©Jamie Thompson