Around 40 per cent of Australian children don’t participate in sport at all. Common sedentary activities that compete with physical activity include homework, computer games, internet use and television.
Sadly, the two hour maximum time that the government recommends for these activities is well exceeded by most children.
Encourage your child to be physically active with these tips.
1. Lead by example – be physically active yourself. This is the very best way for your kids to learn how to choose a healthy lifestyle for themselves. This includes making some family outings that offer opportunities for physical activity, such as playing sport together.
2. Encourage your child to walk or ride their bicycle for short trips, rather than rely on you to drive them.
3. Support your child’s efforts in sport. Make sure you’re there at each match, cheering them on from the sidelines and encourage them positively so that they feel great about what they are doing.
