Don’t let summer be boring. There are plenty of fun-filled activities to keep the whole family busy and healthy at the same time.
When kids are out of school and looking for things to do, you have an opportunity to lead by example and show your family that living an active, healthy lifestyle is important.
Children aren’t likely to change their diets or activity habits on their own.
Obesity impacts about 1 in 5 kids and teens in the U.S., according to the CDC. Children aren’t likely to change their diets or activity habits on their own. It’s up to parents and caregivers to help kids make healthier choices. Creating simple healthy habits will go a long way to helping your family embrace a healthy summer.
Consider:
- Reducing the amount of junk food in the house
- Having healthy snacks readily available
- Limiting your children’s screen time
- Scheduling active family time
Michigan has so much to offer during the summer months. Take advantage of the slower pace of the season and lead by example, teaching your kids some new healthy habits. You may notice the added benefits to your health too!
Below are 7 healthy activities you can do with your kids this summer:
Plant veggies (cucumbers, peas, tomatoes) or herbs in a garden or large pot. Your kids can help tend to them, water them, watch them grow and eat them when they’re ripe.
Take your kids for a bike ride in a different neighborhood using maps to learn about navigation. Tote along a healthy picnic lunch and stop in a park for a break partway through your ride. Michigan has some great bike paths for you and your family to explore.
Master the jump rope. Games, songs, twirling techniques – proof, once again, the simplest toys can provide hours of fun! Here are some helpful tips to get you started.
Dance in the rain. Surprise your kids by taking them outside during a gentle summer shower. Dance around in swimsuits, catch raindrops in your mouth, and jump in all the puddles.
Hold a car wash. Park your car in the driveway and let your child give it a good scrub with a pot of soapy water and a garden hose. Maybe initiate a weekly wash where neighbors can take advantage as well. Perhaps a way for the kiddos to earn a little extra spending money?
Geocaching is another great outdoor activity. You might be asking what is geocaching? It’s basically the world’s largest treasure hunt – learn more about the sport and where are good places to go geocaching in Michigan.
Go swimming at a local pool as they begin to open up, a family member or friend’s pool, or a nearby lake. Swimming is great physical activity because it uses almost all of the muscles in the body. There are also plenty of water games you can play at home with simple supplies like a hose, water bottles and sponges!
Enjoy this time with your family. Summer is the shortest season of the year, and in Michigan we wait all year for it to arrive. Incorporate some of these activities and create memories to last a lifetime.
