It’s never too late to start developing healthy habits, and the best time to start is right now! Here’s how the founder of one of our favorite products is helping role models everywhere teach their kids to develop healthy habits.
When it comes to staying healthy, few things are as important as staying active. My company, FluidStance, is dedicated to getting people moving, and we’re always looking for ways to incorporate more physical activity into daily life. Regular exercise is crucial for both physical and mental health, and studies show that it can even improve kids’ brainpower and school performance.
However, many kids today aren’t getting enough exercise. They spend most of their waking hours sitting—whether at school, doing homework, commuting, or staring at screens—which isn’t good for their bodies or minds.
Juliet Starrett, a parent and co-founder of San Francisco Crossfit, is among many parents advocating for standing desks and active learning options in schools. But there are also many ways we can promote healthy habits at home:
As kids grow older, it’s tempting to let TV time slide, especially during long breaks like summer or holidays. To combat this, set mini-movement goals for every 15 minutes of TV, like doing 5 push-ups or 15 jumping jacks. Join in to set a good example and help make these activities a habit.
If you live close to your child’s school, park, or community center, turn the commute into a chance to get moving. Organize a walking or biking group with other parents to make it more social and fun for the kids. Plus, it helps you work toward your personal daily step goal.
For kids who are hesitant about physical activity, camps or after-school programs can be a great way to get them moving. Summer is an ideal time to try new activities, and your child might discover a new, healthy hobby they love.
While handing over a smartphone or tablet can keep kids entertained, it often leads to long periods of inactivity. Encourage subtle movements during screen time by having them sit on a yoga ball or use a FluidStance Level to stay active while they play.
Getting a family dog can also boost activity levels. Give your kids the responsibility of ensuring the dog gets at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. Even better, make it a family activity so everyone gets some exercise and shares conversations along the way.
When kids see us staying active and making health a priority, they learn to do the same. Simple actions like taking walks after dinner, joining adult sports leagues, or trying a new activity like rock climbing or surfing show them that healthy habits are important.
Swimming is another fun way to stay active that doesn’t feel like exercise. Sign your kids up for lessons with a certified instructor or teach them yourself at home!
