How to Get your Kids off the Couch If you are like most parents, you know that it is difficult to get your kid off the couch and away from phones, video games, and laptops. Doctors have consistently warned against this sedentary lifestyle for children and have urged parents to motivate kids to get out and be active. Moderate physical activity for at least an hour every day is very important for kids. It boosts metabolism, prevents obesity, regulates blood pressure, builds confidence, and helps them sleep and focus better. Here are some ideas for getting kids active: |  |
 | Plan fun outdoor activities for each day of the week. You can opt for planting flowers, organising a treasure hunt, fruit picking, riding around on a bicycle, skipping, walking the dog, exploring your neighbourhood, hiking, kite flying, jumping on trampolines, skateboarding, throwing Frisbees, an evening at the bowling alley... Anything that gets the kids moving will work! Your child does not need to be into sports and athletics to be physically active and fit. Just 60 minutes of moderate activity daily using any of the above ideas will help your child stay healthy and strong. Allow your child to plan physical activities of their liking and organise age-appropriate outdoor activities to keep them motivated. Inactive children grow up to be inactive (and unhealthy) adults. So it is important to lay the foundation of a healthy lifestyle when your kids are young, which is not a problem since children are naturally energetic. |
| Encourage your kids to go out and be active and play with them when they ask you to! | |