Nancy Kahn Scott has been the owner/operator of the My Gym Children’s Fitness Center in Palm Desert, California since 1996, and knows a thing or two about children. Here she talks about getting the most active of children burn off that excess energy.
Energy levels vary from child to child, but some kids seem to never rest unless they’re fast asleep. They are always on the go, moving about and fidgeting even when they are doing a quiet activity, such as watching television or reading a book.
Typically, children who have tons of energy need more energy-packed activities each day, something which benefits them. So finding an activity to enroll a busy, active child in, such as fitness, karate or gymnastics class, would be a great option. Not only will their bodies be occupied, but their minds will be active as well.
Everyday Activity Important
Extra-curricular structured activities, however, are not enough. It’s vitally important to incorporate some non-structured active play every day for that child such as swimming or going to the park. If a child is enrolled in a program once or twice a week, then what is happening the other days? Something active every single day is important for the child’s overall well-being.
Again, setting a great example for your child by you getting out and exercising every day is key. Physical activity must become a priority, and it can be as quick and easy as a 10-minute walk around the block rather than 10 minutes in front of the television. Or maybe it’s doing an active DVD if the weather doesn’t permit.
My Gym has a DVD, My Home Gym, which you can pop in the DVD player and easily exercise to, an easy-to-follow DVD you can do with your child. Just something every day often sets a good example, that you are getting out there with your kids and increasing their strength and stamina, as well as your own.
Parents Leading By Example
Many times parents are exhausted and say they don’t have the energy to do any exercise, whether with their children or not. That’s hard with a really physically active child. If we can get the parents exercising a bit more and working on their own stamina and strength, that will even some of that out.
Along with regular physical activities and exercise, we also suggest providing healthy food for the entire family, including limiting sugar and empty-calorie foods which over-stimulate our kids. Encouraging them to eat healthily and stay active will help them burn off some of their excess energy – and make them, and hopefully their parents as well, happier and healthier at the same time.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
