10 Ways to Keep Your Active Child Active This Summer

Keep Your Active Child Active This Summer

Being active comes naturally to some children. They’re constantly running around the playground, riding their bikes and playing with their friends. If your child falls into this category, you’re probably wondering how you can keep their constant energy levels high in the summer when there are fewer after-school activities and most of the neighborhood kids are away at camp or on vacation with their families. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to keep your active child active this summer so they don’t wind up bored, restless and antsy all summer long.

1) Decide together how you will stay active

If you and your child both love sports, then have a family-wide discussion about scheduling regular games of soccer or baseball. If one parent will be at home with your child during summer break, that parent could work out a plan with friends on how they will stay active while off work. Friends and extended family can help by getting involved in active playtime too! It’s important for all members of your household to commit to remaining active together as often as possible over summer break.

2) Go Outside and Play

Keeping your child active requires a change in mindset. Active play doesn’t necessarily mean structured team sports, after-school programs or expensive summer camps; it can mean simply encouraging your child to move—and play—more throughout their day. Studies show that kids today spend an average of seven hours per day using technology and only two hours outside, while others are more glued to video games than they are to family time. For parents, encouraging outdoor play means creating opportunities for fun and activity right outside your front door.

3) Walk or Bike to School

Studies have shown that kids who live close enough to walk or bike to school show better fitness levels and, overall, are healthier than their peers. Of course, parents needn’t live in walking distance of a school—even driving a block or two can be made safer by making sure your child has reflective clothing and is buckled into a car seat.

4) Keep Sporting Equipment Handy

Sporting equipment, such as a baseball bat or hockey stick, can be tempting for an active child. Unfortunately, they can easily become weapons in your child’s hands. Make sure sporting equipment is kept locked up and away from curious fingers. Also make sure your child isn’t left unsupervised near tools of any kind. Children love playing with all kinds of things that they shouldn’t—don’t leave them a chance by making dangerous items readily available.

5) Visit the Park Together

If you have an active child, make visiting your local park a regular routine. Getting outside will give your kids plenty of fresh air and exercise (and so will any trips to playgrounds and water parks). You can even put together some fun activities like drawing on sidewalk chalk or practicing soccer at a nearby field. When they’re not running around all day, there are also many educational opportunities; spend time reading outdoors at the library or looking for fireflies in a forest preserve.

6) Participate in Activities Together

Getting kids involved in activities can be a fun bonding experience for you and your children. If you’re an active parent, it’s a great way to keep yourself moving, too. Set aside time each week to do something active with your child. Try hiking together or plan a game of tennis at a local park. The more you play together, the easier it will be for your kids to make exercise a part of their lives, too!

7) Inspire Each Other With New Challenges

A great way to keep your active child active is by encouraging them to participate in new challenges. Find an activity you both enjoy and can compete in together—whether it’s a new adventure sport or a local community competition, these experiences are fun and memorable. And if you don’t get along well when competing? Good! You’ll be more invested in being more patient with each other after being forced into situations where you must work together for a shared goal.

8) Get Creative! (Summer crafts, DIY, etc.)

The summer is a great time for kids to get creative and learn through activities outside of school. If you’re hoping your child stays active throughout summer, encourage them to try one of these DIY crafts

9) Do Something as a Family

Going on a hike as a family is not only great exercise, but it’s also an opportunity for kids and parents to bond and have fun. Doing something active as a family (picnics, hikes, playing sports) is one of the best ways to ensure that your kids are staying active during summer break.

10) Have Fun!

Kids love fun. To keep your child active, you’ll need to get him or her moving in a way that is both enjoyable and sustainable for you. These 10 simple tips will help get your kid outside and moving all summer long!