Inactivity continues to affect American children. Obesity rates have tripled since the 1970s. Nearly 20 percent of school-age children are now clinically obese. The problem has lifelong consequences for these children. Overweight children often become overweight adults. Health problems like Type 2 diabetes and heart disease are common. Children have even begun to suffer from health conditions like these before they reach adulthood. Active lifestyles do not develop automatically. Parents need to find solutions to help their children break away from the habits that lead to obesity.
Consider the Changes
Adults like to point out how their favorite toys were their bikes or swings, or that they often played outside with rocks, marbles, and mud. The suggestion that children are now less ambitious because they do not choose these activities is unfair. Previous generations did not have access to amazing electronic devices and 24-hours of animated entertainment like children today. Kids told to choose between a bag of marbles and a complete gaming system will choose the flashier option.
Make an Effort
Parents sometimes raise their children in front of screens until they reach school age and then expect them to want to change their habits and join in active play. A better option is to keep children active as infants, so it becomes their lifestyle. Pre-school Programs in Shelton CT offer activities that make it easy for children to learn to socialize as they play.
Watch the Changes
Gymnastics and sports programs help to improve motor skills, balance, and strength. Children that stay involved with these activities tend to develop a better body image and a higher sense of self-esteem. The programs burn off excess energy, so children have improved concentration and tend to behave better. As they enter school, children that partake in group sports like these will know how to be a part of a team, follow directions and complete basic physical tasks.
Many Pre-school Programs in Shelton CT offer art and music classes that also provide a lot of benefits. However, the habit of being active can help children to develop their creativity too and stay healthy as well. Click here to learn more about the gymnastics programs available for children as young as age one.
