With our children’s alarming new habits regarding exercise, how can parents foster a healthier attitude and regain some of that lost ground?  Here are some suggestions to get our kids moving again.

Hold Off on the Homework: Yes, I know with the amount of homework our kids come home with these days the first instinct is to get them going on it right away. But instead, give them a break from the schoolwork for an hour or two. They will be most enthusiastic about exercise at this time and more focused on their homework afterward. The only caveat is to ensure that they engage in a physical activity, otherwise you are sabotaging the strategy.

Good Role Models: Our children are looking to us as models of good habits. No matter what we say, it is what we do that our children will most often adopt as life-long habits. Even power-walking with the stroller when our kids are infants or toddlers provides a good example. And don’t forget about the other influential people in their life. At school, and even daycare, it is important that their teachers provide positive examples of a healthy lifestyle. If the teacher is not physically fit, at least make sure he or she is emphasizing the importance of exercise to their class.

Turn off The Tube: This includes anything with a screen. Children should be limited to less than two hours of screen time daily, according to the American Heart Association. And don’t think that just because you have a Wii your kids are getting enough exercise. Running in place or swinging an imaginary tennis racket is no replacement for the real thing.

Think Beyond the Soccer Field: Not every child is going to like competition or organized sports. That doesn’t mean they’re doomed to a life of Cheetos and internet chat. Instead, let them try physical activities like hiking, canoeing, dance, mountain biking or geocaching. Check out your town’s parks & recreation catalog for even more ideas.