With school out for summer, there’s no better time to teach your kids that exercise doesn’t have to be a chore with fun activities for the whole family. Don’t let cartoon marathons steal your kids’ summer break; here’s a handful of activity ideas to get the kiddos moving on a healthy lifestyle.
1. Run for a Cause
A feel-good option for both your body and soul is to choose a race that benefits a cause or charity to teach your children the value of giving back. Sign up for a local 5K to walk or run as a family and support a good cause together. If you have little ones, look for an event that includes a fun run or “tot trot” so everyone can participate! For example, my family recently participated in a special 5K to remember a dear friend while raising awareness and research funds for Biliary Atresia.
2. Play Backyard Games
Enjoy the fresh summer air and unleash your inner kid with a few rounds of hide-and-seek and freeze tag. Bring back fond childhood memories with some outdoor game classics that don’t require any specialized equipment. Playing outdoor games as a family is a simple way to make sure everyone’s staying active this summer.
3. Beat the Heat in the Water
The beach isn’t the only place to cool off this summer. Strap on your life jacket, grab a paddle and find a place nearby to canoe or kayak. Or challenge your balance and strength with stand up paddle-board. If you’d rather not bother traveling at all, you can visit the local pool or bring the fun to your own backyard with super-soaker and water balloon fights. Slip-n-slides are also a crowd pleaser for youngsters.
4. Complete an Obstacle Course
There’s something for kids of all ages and for grown-ups who are a kid at heart! Conquer obstacles, test your agility and get dirty at one of the many terrain races across the US this summer. If mud isn’t your forte, you can check out less messy options like courses that feature inflatable structures reminiscent of bouncy castles. If you’re feeling creative, you could even create your own backyard obstacle course with objects you have lying around like ropes and tires!
However you decide to stay active this summer, the therapists at SetPT are here to help. If you need a quick screening before increasing your physical activity, contact your local Set Physical Therapist today!
