Parents' Active Lifestyle Helps Youngsters Be Active, Too (continued)

• listening to music and dancing together
• holding their hands while you jump
• exploring and playing in the backyard or playground together
• climbing stairs and using climbing equipment
• playing ball
• taking a toddler movement class
• walking like a penguin or imitating other animals
• playing "Follow the Leader," "Ring Around the Rosy," and other similar games

Preschoolers need some independent playtime (about an hour) to choose their own activities (like painting and drawing, doing a puzzle, playing dress-up, etc.). But they also require at least an hour of organized play and exercise to help them develop important motor skills through activities like:

• kicking, catching, and throwing a ball
• hopping or balancing on one foot
• peddling a tricycle or bike
• tumbling and skipping
• running through obstacle courses
• playing "Tag," "Hide and Seek," "Follow the Leader," "Duck, Duck, Goose," "London Bridge," "I'm a Little Teapot," or "Simon Says"
• practicing basic skills — like jumping, throwing, skipping, and catching — at home rather than in organized sports, where they might not understand the rules and may lack the attention span, skills, and coordination needed

From infancy through preschool help your little one stay active — and safe — by:

• being active yourself — show your youngster the importance of regular exercise by making it a welcome part of your family's daily routine
• limiting screen time (TV, computer, and video games) — no more than 1 to 2 hours of quality programming and content for tots 2 and up
• supervise and provide a safe, childproof play area where your child has room be active and explore
• make it fun — instead of forcing certain activities, figure out what helps keep your kid moving and loving every minute of it

Source: "Early life determinants of physical activity in 11 to 12 year olds: cohort study," British Medical Journal, November 23, 2007.