Getting active with the kids

  I am by nature a very active person.  Even before my Roller Derby days, I was involved in a variety of activities.  I took dance lessons for 13 years, and bowled in a duckpin league for almost as long.  There was softball, basketball, and volleyball (my sports “mistress” prior to roller derby). 

  When I wasn’t participating in organized activities, I was out riding my bike, swimming in a friend’s pool, or playing kickball and dodge in the school parking lot.  I have been active my whole life, and I’m trying to develop the same activities level in my 3 year old son.   But, it can be a challenge.

  My son is growing up in a very technological era, inundated with video game systems, DVD movies and channels that broadcast cartoon ALL DAY.  It makes it very difficult for a kid to unplug from all this technology to become active.  With the Summer Olympics still fresh in our minds, it is the perfect inspiration to promote healthy activities.  Although it can be a challenge, there are plenty of easy ways to take part in physical activities.

  Our house features a decent sized unfenced backyard with a small playset and grassy areas that provide a perfect space for outdoor fun.  We have a deck box filled with various preschool friendly sports equipment and even a Slip and Slide.  A nice day in the backyard could begin with some swinging, and progress to shooting soccer goals, and end with a dip in the plastic kiddie pool.  But, the backyard is not the perfect retreat every day.  Due to improper grading and drainage issues, our backyard haven becomes a quagmire unsuitable for outdoor play, unless we want to pretend we’re on an excursion through the Everglades.  So, we have to find other playtime solutions.

Boarding in the neighboorhood

  Our garage is our secondary activity arsenal.  There, my son can choose from his Power Wheel, scooter, or “big boy” bike equipped with training wheels.  This active mama has no problem pulling out a pair of skates or a skateboard to keep up with the mobile boy.  But, before we hit the pavement, safety gear must be on.  I never step out on the Roller Derby track without safety gear.  Therefore, my son does not start a wheeled activity without his gear in place.

  We are also lucky to have a community with trails that travel through the surrounding the wooded areas.  These are perfect for short nature hikes, where we can also learn about animals and plants.  Sometimes, we take a canvas bag and collect items to use for nature based art projects. 

  We are also within a short drive from a multitude of playgrounds.  My son loves slides and swings, so it’s easy entertainment for a while.  We also make sure to stay hydrated with a water bottle nearby.  A trip to the playground usually results in one tuckered out 3 year old.

  One of my favorite activities to do with my son is going to the local library.  It gets us out of the house, and away from the temptation of TV and video games for a while.  We first got involved in a Babies Loves Books program when he was 6 months old, and continued into a Tales for Twos program until he started his preschool program.  Besides developing a love for books, these activities also involve moving and dancing and being social.  BONUS:  IT’S FREE!!  Now, we visit the library regularly to find great books and have a little physical activity.  There is a small indoor play area and an outdoor playground.  There’s also a trail to a nearby pond.  Going to the library always ends up being good for mind and body. 

  Even in this technology driven age, it is easy to find simple activities for kids to get active.  Look around your neighborhood for trails and playgrounds.  Break out the bikes and scooters, or just lace up some shoes and go out for a stroll. Check out your local library and Parks and Rec for activities.  There are so many ways to get kids off the couch and moving.