Active Families Making Memories

I don't know about you, but my kids will always say yes to two things: 1 - spending time with me (kids really do love quality time with their parents) and 2 - doing something energetic (my kids are little balls of exuberance and seem to have endless amounts of energy!) How great would it be to instill healthy lifestyle habits in them now while they're young and so impressionalble? What an advantage that would be for them once they leave home! Not to mention the memories your family will cherish forever.

Here's some ideas that might help get your family moving:

- Rollerblading: You can buy children's rollerblades that convert to several shoe sizes, so they grow with your child. Some places still have roller rinks where you can rent your blades and skate away the afternoon together. If not, many parks have flat, paved walkways where you could spend your sunny days and evenings.

- Swimming: The ocean, a lake, a pool, or maybe your neighbourhood even has a wave pool. Get in the water with them - push them on foam pads, race them across the shallow end, or practice your back floats. Have fun!

- Zumba -For kids too? Yes, kids love this Latin dance inspired workout! Some schools are even teaching it as part of their P.E. curriculum. Check your local community centers because some offer family Zumba, for children 6+ accompanied by a parent. If all else fails, YouTube has many fun Zumba workouts that you can do right in your own home. You might be surprised how much rhythm your little one has! Find your two right feet together!

- Biking - Hit the road (safely, and not literally, of course!) Sport those helmets proudly! You can always pack a pic-nic lunch and choose a near-by destination to get the whole family out of the house. An inexpensive way to "dine out"!

- Play Pass - Pass around a ball (or even a frisby) in your yard, at the park or at the beach. If your little one isn't the best at throwing yet, you could get quite the workout running to fetch the ball!

I can't think of a better way to make memories than by being engaged with my children - laughing with them, playing with them - having our lives be intricately woven together through bonding experiences. How much more will those memories impact our children if it's also teaching them how to be active and healthy. So go on! Have fun being active with your kids and make some unforgettable memories!