In UK physical child activity levels are plummeting. With screen time soaring and outdoor play declining, less than half of UK children meet the Chief Medical Officer’s recommendation of 60 minutes of daily exercise. Shockingly, this drops to 34% for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Meanwhile, children aged 8-18 spend an average of 7.7 hours a day on entertainment screens.
Chris Sharman, a child activity expert, believes parents can reverse this trend by creating a positive, enjoyable approach to exercise. Here are his five practical tips to help your child stay active.
Make it play, not a chore for child activity
Children resist exercise when it feels like a task. Instead, make movement fun and unstructured. Games like tag, scavenger hunts, or dance-offs can encourage activity without it feeling like a workout.
Top tip: Turn exercise into a game. Create playful challenges like “who can jump the furthest” or “who can do the funniest dance move.” Keep it spontaneous and enjoyable.
Lead by example
Children mimic their parents’ behaviour. If you’re active, they’re more likely to follow suit. Incorporate family activities like cycling, hiking, or evening walks to show that exercise is part of daily life.
Top tip: Schedule a daily family activity. Whether it’s a walk or a game of catch, making it a routine creates something your kids will anticipate.
Let them take the lead in child activity
Give your child a say in their activities. Whether it’s swimming, skateboarding, or a YouTube dance routine, letting them choose increases their enthusiasm.
Top tip: Let them pick one activity a week. A trampoline park visit or trying a new sport can empower them and make exercise exciting.
Focus on skills, not performance
Avoid pressuring your child to win or perform perfectly. Instead, celebrate effort and progress. Skill-building activities like learning to ride a bike or mastering a dance move can be both fun and rewarding.
Top tip: Encourage skill-building. Highlight achievements, such as their first successful somersault or a longer run, to boost confidence and motivation.
Build movement into daily child activity routines
Integrate physical activity into everyday life. Routine helps children see movement as a natural part of their day.
Top tip: Start small with habits like a 15-minute walk before school or a weekly family yoga session. Consistency helps make exercise second nature.
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