It is a well documented fact that
kids are less active today than they have ever been. This is a concern for many
parents, as obesity levels rise and kids become less healthier, leading to
illnesses and physical problems that can affect them as they get older. There
are plenty of ways to get your kids active though, and the toys industry is
doing what it can to make getting active something that kids aren’t just
prepared to do, but actually want to get involved in.
The best active toys for kids are
bikes, scooters and rollerblades. These toys give kids the chance to be really
independent and head out on their own or with friends and their own form of
transport. Learning to ride a bike is a rite of passage for all children and as
they get older gives them their first taste of what it is to be truly
independent, taking their bike off wherever they like to go. There are plenty
of great first bikes for kids out there, and ones with training wheels tend to
be very popular with both adults and children for a first bike. Parents feel
more comfortable knowing their child can learn to steer and pedal the bike
without the fear of falling off, and it gives kids a chance to enjoy their bike
from the moment they get it, rather than worrying about the difficulty of
keeping balance as well as steering. Look out for themed bikes and scooters
which kids can take real pride in and will soon want to head out as much as
possible to practice their new skill!
Toys that the family can play with
together can also help get both parents and children interested in sport in a
new way. Popular with families in particular are swingball sets which allow
everyone to get involved in playing and teach hand eye coordination as well as
getting everyone active as they move around to get the ball. Any game that can
be played outside and teach a certain kind of sport is helpful though, and you
can also buy tennis, cricket and rounders sets which are suitable for all the
family as they feature lighter bats and softer balls so there is no chance of a
younger child injuring themselves when they first start to play. Kids love
getting active and playing games with their parents as well, as it can be a
great bonding activity, so if you really want your children to enjoy exercise
you may as well take it up with them and get the whole family fighting fit and
having fun at the same time.
Whichever method you choose, keep
an eye out online and in toy stores for the best active toys and make sure the
whole family is willing to give it a go so that you always have a fun activity
planned on a sunny day which will be entertaining and get your heart pumping at
the same time.
