Practical Parenting: Just Move! Creating Good Habits that Last

In today's fast-paced world filled with screens and distractions, instilling healthy habits in our children has become more challenging than ever. One such crucial habit is movement or physical activity. In this episode of "Practical Parenting," the hosts explore the significance of movement for children and provide valuable insights on how to create consistent routine habits around physical activity.

In a society increasingly characterized by sedentary lifestyles, the need for movement is more critical than ever, especially for children. The American Heart Association recommends children get a minimum of 60 minutes of movement every day. This movement is vital not only for physical well-being but also for mental and emotional health.

One of the primary challenges in encouraging children to move is making it enjoyable. The hosts emphasize movement doesn't need to be synonymous with exercise. They advocate for changing the framework around how we approach physical activity, opting to use the term "movement" instead. The key is to make it fun, especially for children.

Dancing to music is one delightful way to get kids moving. Adventure walks and scavenger hunts are other exciting movement options for children. These activities stimulate their curiosity and creativity while keeping them physically active.

For those children who have a penchant for sports, exposure is the key. Let them explore various sports and see what resonates with them. It could be anything from traditional dance forms like ballet and jazz to modern options like hip-hop. Even martial arts, such as Brazilian jiu-jitsu and traditional Asian martial arts, offer unique movement experiences. The goal is to expose children to various forms of movement, allowing them to gravitate toward what resonates with them.

Movement isn't just about keeping children physically active; it offers a wide range of benefits such as improved brain activity, enhanced mood, better sleep, and helping restless or fidgety children find calmness. Movement has a direct impact on creativity and cognitive function, making it an essential component of a child's overall development.

For children with a predisposition for hyperactivity or anxiety, movement can serve as a powerful tool. It can help shift them from a "fight or flight" mode to a calmer state. In moments of overwhelming anxiety, putting on their favorite music and dancing or engaging in simple physical exercises like jumping jacks can provide immediate relief.

Instilling a habit of movement in children is a task that requires dedication and consistency. Parents play a pivotal role in this process. By modeling an active lifestyle and finding joy in movement themselves, parents can set a positive example for their children. Leading by example can be a powerful motivator for children to embrace physical activity as a natural part of life.

One effective way to make movement a family affair is to incorporate it into daily activities. Walking the dog, for instance, is not just an excellent way to exercise the family pet but also an opportunity for the entire family to engage in a shared activity. Other ideas include having impromptu dance parties, taking movement breaks while working or studying, and making family outings more active.

Encouraging children to move, explore, and find joy in physical activity is essential for their development and wellbeing. By making movement fun, emphasizing its benefits, and modeling a healthy lifestyle, parents can shape their children's habits in a positive and enduring way.