You can foster this innate love of movement by providing your child with many opportunities for safe play. Try to encourage at least three stints of physical activity throughout the day. And at least 25 percent of children are overweight. Part of this is attributable to the fact that the average American child watches four hours of TV each day. And research shows that the more television a child watches, the more likely the child is to be overweight, which in turn carries significant health risks.
Fit children are more likely to be fit adults.
Your child can help walk the dog, climb up and down the stairs to put away toys, walk to the grocery store or library with you, help you wash the car, or help rake leaves and then jump in. Schedule a fun fitness outing each week. Participate together in something the whole family can enjoy, such as hiking a nature trail or splashing in the pool. Hold birthday parties at a bowling alley, skating rink, or water park. Limit television and video watching time.