Physical Activity for Kids

Healthy after school activities

Here are some suggestions to help keep kids going during the busy school year ahead and stay at a healthy weight as their bodies grow.

1. Put at least 1 hour of physical activity into your child's day.
   It doesn't have to be 60 minutes all at once – it can be shorter activities that add up to 1 hour. Fun activities that children do on their own are best. Playing tag or hide–and–seek is a great way to get moving.

2. Different types of activity is best, including:

   Aerobic activities, like running, skipping, or dancing
   Muscle–strengthening activities, like climbing trees or playground equipment
   Bone–strengthening activities, like jumping rope or playing basketball

Here is a list of websites that are helpful in finding healthy activities for your kids.

Help Your Child Stay at a Healthy Weight - from healthfinder.gov

Children's growth charts - Check your child's height and wieght against standard growth charts.

Physical Games & Activities for Groups - Fun, fitness & personal development for groups
through physical movement & exercise

Physical Activity and Children - Information from the American Heart Association

Helpful Links

Kids Health
www.kidshealth.org

Shape Up America
www.shapeup.org/publications/99.tips.for.family.fitness.fun/index.html