Having kids can be really expensive, especially if you have more than one. As a parent I’m always trying to balance ensuring they’re having plenty of fun, with sticking to a monthly budget. If you’re looking for some low cost ways to help them be more active then this post is for you. Keep reading to learn my top 4 tips for getting your kids to be more active without breaking the bank.
1. Consider a Stunt Scooter
There’s something really fun and enchanting about zooming around on a stunt scooter. Kids of all ages love them and because they’re relatively portable they are a great option for commuting to school or even commuting to a bus stop. Your kids can easily enjoy scooting with friends and it’s a great way to be active without feeling like they’re exercising. Stunt scooters are relatively affordable, making them a great gift idea that won’t break the bank. Because stunt scooters have an adjustable handle, your kids will be able to use them for years adjusting them as they grow, ensuring it’s a good value purchase that will last a while.
2. Encourage School Sports
While there are some costs associated with school sports, they’re a lot more affordable than going through a private club. They can also be a great way for your kids to get an introduction to a variety of sports without too much investment, so they can see what they really like. If you played sports when you were a child, talk to your children about what you most enjoyed about the sports you chose.
3. Follow Their Interests
What are your kids interested in? If you try to force something that doesn’t interest them, chances are it will either be a battle to get them ready each week or it will be a waste of money. Listen to your kids interests and try to follow their interests where possible. Try to encourage them to have one active winter activity and one active summer activity, so no matter the time of year they’re having regular exercise and keeping their body moving. Nowadays kids spend way more time on their phones, watching screens, and just generally being inactive, so it’s important to foster healthy sporting habits.
While you can encourage and support all you want, sometimes you just have to lead by example. Try to get more activity into your life as a family. Whether it’s by going on a long hike, swimming on the weekends, or going on family bike rides. Being active and fit is an important part of life, it’s really good for your heart and also your mental health. Try to find more ways to get a little extra activity into your family’s life and you’ll see the benefits flow into all areas of your life. There are so many free or low cost activities you can do as a family, it just takes a little creativity.
Encouraging your children to be more active is a wonderful gift you can give them. Hopefully these healthy habits you encourage will be with them for their entire lives.