It is very important for adults as well as for children to keep a strong and healthy heart by doing activities and keeping them regular. Even though children’s hearts are younger and stronger than adult hearts, the foundations that you set for children with regards to staying active will remain with them through adulthood and make exercise easier for them throughout their lives.
Healthy Heart Activities suggestion
Playing some games, sports or some activities such as hiking, biking, swimming and others are all great ways for kids to keep their heart healthy.
Sports gives kids the chance to run, jump and play in a team setting, while at the same time learning skills that will help them later in life. Many sports have practices during the week as well as games, giving kids ample opportunities for physical activity that will help promote a healthy heart.
Many outdoor games are a way to help kids have fun while being active. Have your child invite some friends over and organize a game of tag or hide-and-seek
Swimming is one of the classic summer activities, and one that involves lots of physical activity. Roughhousing in the pool, playing games, diving and swimming are all effective ways to increase the heart rate. Kids will have fun in the pool, while at the same time get the physical activity they need to have a healthy heart.
Tips for parent
- Ask children what activities they enjoy, then Encourage them to take part in. Encourage them to follow their interests, and make activity fun – make a kite and fly it together, teach them to run, skip or use a hula hoop.
- Play active games with your child both indoors and out. For example, chasing, hide and seek, hopscotch and skipping.
- Provide them with a box of sports equipment, such as balls, skipping ropes, tennis rackets, frisbees and roller skates.
- Do some regular activity together as a family to help your children develop a positive attitude towards physical activity.
- Share your ideas with other parents locally and arrange games in a nearby park. Take it in turns to supervise them.
- Praise and encourage children when they are taking part in an activity – particularly if they are learning a new skill. Keep feedback positive – and don’t push too hard. If they enjoy the experience they’ll keep taking part.
- Be a role model. Children learn by watching what parents do so show your child you enjoy and value activity by taking part yourself. Even simple things like walking instead of using the car can have a big influence.