Summer holidays are a challenging time for parents. Kids want to have fun but parents want them to be engaged in healthy activities. One way is for parents to spend more time with the kids and help them learn new things while having fun. There are other ways too. Some tips:
Work on working out: Use the vacation to work on your child’s fitness level. Exercising regularly improves brain function. The best way would be for the parents to involve the child in his/her exercise routine and work out together. If you’re sending them to a fitness facility make sure that they are being supervised by a certified fitness instructor.
Read away: If your kid is not a reader, start inculcating the reading habit this summer. Get involved with their reading. Take them to your local library and help them choose appropriate books. Make a habit of a shared reading at bedtime or any other set time. Work out book-related fun activities with the kids.
Ride the hobby horse: Holidays are a great time to let children follow their interests. If the child is willing, enrol them in hobby classes that suit their interests. But you have to get involved as a parent too. Take time to participate in their activities, show interest in what they are doing and how far they’ve come. This will keep them motivated and also strengthen the bond between you.
Limit TV time: This is a huge concern for modern parents especially as studies show that too much time before the television can have adverse effects. Make some tough rules about TV watching. Set times for watching TV, not just for the kids but for yourself as well. Keep the TV away from the dining area or living room.
The chores way: Involving kids in routine household chores makes them both responsible and independent. But don’t make this all about work. Have a competition on who finishes various tasks first.
Stay outdoors: Find out what is your child’s favourite sport and encourage him/her to play on a regular basis. Join in the game to make it more fun. Go cycling with them; involve them in gardening; take a trekking holiday. In case you’re all stuck indoors thanks to the heat, try some fun indoor games. There are plenty to choose from.
Summer camps: Summer camps are good fun, as children get to interact with other children and engage in a variety of activities. All this helps improve their self-confidence and gain knowledge. It also makes them more independent. However study the camp atmosphere and the activities it offers and ensure that it works for your child before signing up.
A final note: Whatever you do, don’t forget to eat healthy. Ensure that they eat plenty of seasonal fruits and vegetables and drink lots of water to stay hydrated.
Neeraj Mehta is a fitness expert, nutritionist and director, GFFI Fitness Academy. neeraj.gffi@hotmail.com
