Get the kids to stay active in the fall

It’s only 4:00 pm but the air is starting to get chilly. BRRR! Fall is here, and it’s the best time to get some outdoor exercise! But with homework and projects and after-school jobs, students often lag behind once the cold season starts.

Here are some tips to keep your children active during the cooler season of autumn:

(FIRST) Right after school, give a light protein-packed snack. It staves off hunger and prevents over-eating, but also gives them a little more energy for the physical activity.

1. Get them involved outdoors while it’s still daylight and warmer. Walk, bike, stroll the neighborhood, play hoops, jump-rope, anything to get their blood going, for at least 15-30 minutes.

2. If you choose to do homework first, everyone can head out right before dinner (or daddy can lead the troupe while mommy is cooking). A brisk walk or exercise will give them appetite too.

3. Get up early on Saturday and enjoy the neighborhood, but wear a light sweater and headgear.

4. Take walks at the mall, indoor park or gym. The community center is also a great place to get blood going.

5. YMCA, Boys/Girls’ Club offer classes and lessons, or enroll the children in some indoor lessons like taek wondo, dance/ballet.

The cold weather shouldn’t stop our children from getting exercise and physical activities, so while they’re at it, let’s join them too.