subject: Summer Break Does Not Mean A Fitness Break [print this page] If you are a parent, you know that as soon as the final school bell of the year rings, kids have a totally different attitude. Even the most studious children may behave differently during the summer. While kids deserve a break from homework and tests, there is no reason why they cannot stay active during the summer months. If the right activities are planned and available to them, they are more likely to get out and have fun instead of lying around the house complaining of boredom. Having a plan for the summer months will make the break easier on the entire family. Kids who have plenty of fun options have a tendency to be happier kids, which will help families avoid squabbles and fights. If you are looking for ways to keep kids active, there are plenty of options. The first thing you want to do is plan far enough in advance so you are not stuck at the last minute trying to come up with options. You also should find affordable options. Even if you choose to splurge once in awhile during the summer, you want to be sure there are cheap choices each day to offer your kids. Finally, find safe options that keep kids active. The goal is to avoid kids sitting around the house on the couch, stuffing their faces with sugary or fattening foods all summer long. If your kid is a sports enthusiast, keep their skills sharp with informal practice sessions. If your child loves playing ball, consider pitching machines or baseball training aids for the backyard. If they love basketball, you can give them a net for practice. This gives them a way to practice even during the off-season.
Another option is to find a camp that will keep kids fit and busy. There are camps for just about every interest, so be sure to choose something your child enjoys.
If camp is not in the budget, create a camp right at your house. Kids can invite friends over once a week for a day camp, or you can schedule an afternoon of organized activities for just your own child or children. Even arts and crafts will get activity into the lives of kids. Send them out to hunt for items in nature and them use them for arts and crafts.
A fitness class could also be a solution for adding activity to the schedule. Local schools often offer summer fitness programs so kids can swim, do aerobics or play a sport during the summer months.
Again, those without the funds for a class can design one at home. Families can go swimming, practice a sport, or even enjoy a fitness tape together.
