4 2016 - Tehama County Medical Guide
Families oen look for fun things to do
together, and few things are more fun than
physical activity. Choosing activities that
combine fun with physical activity is a great
way to bond as a family and get healthy at
the same time.
According to Let's Move!, an initiative
launched by First Lady Michelle Obama
to fight the problem of childhood obesi-
ty, children need 60 minutes of play with
moderate to vigorous physical activity
every day. Parents know it can sometimes
be hard to get kids to disconnect from their
devices long enough to get out and play.
But Let's Move! notes that kids who are
supported by their families or surrounded
by others interested in physical activity are
more likely to participate in such activities
themselves. Families looking to get fit and
grow closer can consider the following
approaches to live healthier, more active
lifestyles.
• Give gis that encourage activity. Both
youngsters and adults are enamored with
the latest gadgets, but tablets and video
game consoles won't do much to make fam-
ilies more physically active. In lieu of toys
that promote sedentary lifestyles, give kids
toys that encourage physical activity. Erect
a basketball hoop in the driveway or go buy
new bicycles for the whole family, resolving
to go for a nightly ride together.
• Restrict TV time. Establish house rules
regarding how many hours of television
kids and adults can watch each day. Kids
will follow their parents' lead with regard
How families can
get up and go
