Getting Children active
As a nanny, one of your responsibilities is to ensure that the children in your care stay active and healthy. However, getting kids to exercise can sometimes be a challenge. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to make exercise fun for children. We have teamed up with Kevin a personal trainer and a manny to give us some tips to help you get started.
Make it a game
Children love games, so why not make exercise a game? You could create an obstacle course in the backyard or set up a scavenger hunt that involves physical activity. You could also play games like tag, hide-and-seek, or Red Light, Green Light to get the kids moving.
Incorporate music
Music can be a great motivator for children. Create a playlist of upbeat songs that the kids can dance to, or play musical chairs to get their heart rates up. You could also do a workout routine together that involves following along with a child-friendly exercise video.
Use props
Props can make exercise more fun and engaging for children. You could use hula hoops, skipping ropes, or balls to play games or do exercises. You could also create a mini-circuit training session that involves jumping jacks, squats, and lunges using props.
Make it a group activity
Children are more likely to be motivated to exercise if they do it with their peers. If you’re caring for more than one child, plan group activities that involve physical activity. You could take the kids to the park or set up an outdoor game of football or rounders
Celebrate milestones
Children love to be praised and recognised for their achievements. Set goals for the children to reach, such as running a certain distance or completing a set number of exercises. When they reach these milestones, celebrate their accomplishments with a small reward, such as a healthy snack or a fun activity.
Be a positive role model
Children are more likely to engage in physical activity if they see the adults in their lives doing it too. Make exercise a part of your daily routine and encourage the children to join in. You could take a walk together, do yoga, or go for a bike ride.
In conclusion, getting children to exercise doesn’t have to be a chore. With a little creativity and planning, you can make exercise fun and engaging for the children in your care. Remember to make it a game, incorporate music and props, make it a group activity, celebrate milestones, and be a positive role model. By doing so, you’ll be helping the children develop healthy habits that will benefit them for years to come.
