It is often a challenge to get children away from the television or video screen, but parents need to set appropriate limits. It is important to limit their total screen time to two hours per day or less. This will give them time to do their school work, play games, and be active and creative. Parents can best encourage their children to be more active by doing active things together. If you can go outside, you can take a nature walk, go to a park, ride bicycles, play ball games, or jump rope. If you can’t go outside, you can dance to music, play hide-and-seek in the house, make your own karaoke music, or have an indoor picnic. If you find it difficult to get him away from the video screen, look for video games that involve physical activity. You can find many good Web sites with other ideas by searching for fun things to do with children. Parents hold the key to helping children be more active. Children should participate in physical activity that gets their heart rate up and makes them breathe hard for at least 60 minutes each day. In addition, time spent in less vigorous activity is also beneficial.

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