Today most children don’t get enough exercise from running and playing. Children spend a lot of time on the computer and playing games on an xbox, etc. There is too much observation and not enough participation in physical activities. Children need at least an hour of physical activity a day. Children around the United States tend to weigh more than ever before. Not only are they eating more food, they are less active. Physical activity is one of the keys to good health for people of all ages. Did you know: Children who are active when they are very young are less likely to develop childhood obesity, a growing problem among children?

Spring is a good time for your children and you to be physically active. Take advantage of the additional hours of sunlight and plan at least one physical activity with your children every day. Here are some suggestions for you.

Jumping Animals - play music and ask the children to jump like a variety of animals, such as a frog or kangaroo.

Follow the Leader Walk - Each person takes a turn being the leader and decides where and how to walk. You might skip for 10 steps and then hop on one foot for 10 steps, run, walk, go up and down steps. Let the children use their imagination when they are the leader.

Rabbit and turtle - Stand at attention. Jog in place very slowly, pretending to be a turtle. Have someone call out "rabbit." Now run faster, pretending to be a rabbit. Faster. Lift your knees up high. When someone calls out "turtle" slow down. Slowly. More slowly.

Gorilla Walk - Spread your feet apart. Bend from the waist and grab both ankles. Keep knees and legs straight. Now walk forward. GRRRRRR!

Bikes- Go for a ride on your bikes and play follow the leader on your bikes.

This is one way to get a little activity in your life and spend some time together as a family.

Source: Illinois Extension Service.