Exercises for Toddlers: Healthy Living for Kids
When children mature they begin to get increased management of their motor skills. When a baby reaches over a year old he or she will start to walk. The first stages of walking begin with short unsteady attempts until the steps are perfected. As they master walking they're ready to be on the go. Get ready for a fun-filled stage!
Teach Movements
Before babies walk they crawl. You'll often see little ones who are tired of trying to stand or walk revert back to crawling since they have already mastered that skill. Now is the best time to add exercise into their daily regime. Adding fun exercises that get kids moving can be better than trying to stick to a firm schedule. Kids this age have short attention spans. Start by teaching small arm or leg movements, hopping and jumping. Keep everything simple and don't worry if they can't master a task - just concentrate on motion. Even dancing can be fun for tots.
Healthy Diet
Now is the time to start introducing new and healthy foods to the toddler's diet. New teeth mean they can chew foods that they weren't able to eat previously. Toddlers are actually now at risk for becoming overweight. It's more important now than ever to feed them foods that are suitable for their age. Giving them some foods may trigger food allergies. Kids at this age are discovering their own tastes so give them plenty of healthy choices. This is the ideal time to give new fruits and vegetables to put them on a lifelong road to a good diet.
Physical Routines
Toddlers are exuberant and seem to constantly be on the move. Tots like to discover things around them and move quickly while constantly having fun. Running and playing use most of the little one's muscles including those in the arms and legs. Start now by helping tots learn how to organize actions into physical fitness routines. Keep movements simple and routines short. Try to include some short running activities that add aerobic exercise. Get them a tricycle to learn coordination skills. Practice routines together for added fun.
Take to the Park
Outdoor activities are great for this age group. Outside parks and play yards have many different types of play apparatus specifically for kids. The latest parks offer all types of ergonomic items that are just perfect for building little one's strength. Spending time using this equipment will surely improve your child's overall physical fitness level giving them a great workout. Best of all parks are built with safety in mind so there's no need to worry. Look for parks specifically designed for tots. Try to visit several times per week.
Indoor Fun
Back at home you can start to teach some basic tumbling skills. Show little ones how to skip, roll, hop and jump. Try anything that is easy and allows for movements. Join in the fun so you'll get some exercise at the same time. Throw in a little silliness since kids love to laugh. It's great fun to exercise with your toddler. Enjoy time spent with your little ones and marvel at the joy they get in trying new actions. They will soon take pride in their newfound talents.
Further Reading:
- How to Live a Healthy Lifestyle At Any Age
- Exercises for Infants… Really?
- Exercises for Teens: Keeping Fit and Having Fun
- Exercises for Kids: Health and Fitness Isn’t Just for Parents!
- Exercises for Adults: Getting Fit, Fast!
Tags: Exercise Affirmations, exercise programs, family health, fitness, the importance of exercise, Weight Loss
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