Unique Ways To Get Kids To Exercise

It seems the minute you mention the word "exercise" to kids, they quickly come up with excuses indicating they have something more important to do. However, if you ask kids if they'd like to play a game, go swimming or bowling, they are the first to have their coats on.

Getting kids to exercise takes a certain amount of creativity. While in some homes, the entire family may be involved in a daily exercise routine, other families may not exercise at all, or only do so a few days a week. Teaching children about health and the importance of a good diet and exercise program starts when they are very young. It then becomes a natural extension of their home life instead of a drudgery or chore they run away from.

If you kids are of school age, undoubtedly there are after school programs that engage in such sports as tennis, basketball or baseball. These after school programs not only help your child develop social skills, but become very active which then spills over into their home life as well. If your kids are into baseball, perhaps they can join their local little league. Exercise has to be fun for kids and sports clubs are not only fun but educational as well.

From an early age kids mimic parents. If you exercise at home utilizing DVDs, your little ones may want to join you if they sense you are having a good time. So too, the more exposed they are to family exercise routines the more likely they will want to participate without encouragement.

Whether you belong to a bowling league or a swimming club, or simply walk or jog with friends, this is a great time to take your kids along and get them interested in these activities. Make a game or contest out of whatever activity you engage in. Kids love to compete, especially if their parents are involved.

About the Author:
The author has written an e-book giving an insight ito children. children's health

Cycling to School

Increasingly schools are promoting cycling for children over 9 years old according to the Government’s ‘Travelling to school’ action plan. By cycling to school, children and parents are taking daily exercise. This has both immediate benefits, as children will be more alert for the day ahead, and long term benefits as both parents and children become healthier.
Whilst cycling to and from school children are able to socialise with other children who live locally and form connections within their community.

Contact your school to find out if they have a staff member liaising with the local council on their school travel plan. If they don't, have a look at our information on making your school better for cycling to see how you can encourage them to improve facilities.

Kids Bike Trailers

Suitable for 6 months to 6 years (approx). Information and pros and cons of using a trailer to carry your children

Trailers may not be appropriate for heavy traffic in central London, but they can be great for less busy areas. They don’t affect your centre of balance, and if the bike falls over, a good trailer won’t. They also allow you to carry extra belongings with you, and shelter the child from weather. It’s advisable to fix a tall flag to the trailer to make it easier for cars to see it.

There is no specific safety standard for child trailers as a legal requirement of sale in the UK. Trailers may be CE marked but this is not currently a requirement.

Remember that if you are using the trailer at night, it must have its own rear red light or lights.
Most trailers are designed for one or two children. Maximum capacity for a two seater trailer is usually two children up to about six years old, though this will be hard work up hills.
The trailer you choose will connect to your bike using a hitch. Hitches vary, and can mount to the seat post, bike rack, axle or frame, so you’ll need to work out which hitch fits your bike. Beware of heavy steel frames – alloy frames and quality fabric that won’t tear easily are best. Alternatively ask someone carrying children in a trailer for their experiences.