Children 6-13 years old should remain active throughout the day, and aim to accumulate 60 minutes or more of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity each day. At school this is accumulated through Physical Education lessons, Sport classes, recess and lunch breaks. A parent’s reaction to their child’s physical activity will help to encourage the child to persist.
When you praise a child for their active play, or even get involved in the activity, your child will be more inclined to do it. Whether it’s swimming, riding a bike, playing soccer or walking a long distance, your constant encouragement will offer them a feeling of accomplishment. If it’s an activity you can share, the bonding experience you’ll gain will be an added bonus.