Keep 'em on their toes

Here's how you can persuade your kids to be active

It's easy to help your children get their recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity, according to the Alliance for a Healthier Generation.

For starters, join them. That's the best way to persuade kids to be active. And you can share the fun and health benefits, too.

The group also suggests that adults: Encourage children to get on their bicycles, roller skates or blades and scooters. Make sure they wear helmets and protective pads.

Teach children to walk as often as possible, such as to a friend's house, to the store, around the mall or any other place where it's safe to walk. If they don't have a particular destination, suggest that they take the dog for a walk.

Turn up the music and dance. It doesn't have to be formal or perfect, just have fun.

Organised sports aren't the only way to enjoy team activities.

Children can meet with a few friends to play street hockey, shoot some hoops, kick a soccer ball or toss around a football or baseball.

Check neighbourhood recreation centres for open gym times and for activities such as tennis or swimming.

Teach children how to do active things such as hopscotch, jump-rope, tag, hide-and-seek, kickball, T-ball, hula hoops or kite flying.