The focus is on the importance of developing a lifelong habit of physical activity. Maintaining activity throughout the school years can prevent sedentary behavior in adulthood. Studies have shown that nearly half of young people ages 12-21 are not vigorously active. Boys gravitate toward ball games, which involve rules. However, by adolescence most kids tend to become less active.
Inactivity continues throughout high school and plummets in college.
One of the reasons for inactivity include sports become too serious and stop being fun, causing a high drop-out rate. Expose children to a variety of activities and let them decide what to play. Set a good example by being active yourself. If you applaud effort with compliments, you encourage them to continue. Above all, have fun while keeping fit.