We've all heard how important it is for our kids to play sports: they promote values and they keep them healthy. But let's be honest, motivating them to exercise isn't always easy since lots of children would much rather sit in front of the TV playing video games or spend hours on tablets or smartphones. So what can we do to change that?
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I spoke to Dr. Alejandro Badia, a renowned hand surgeon who's also a psychologist, father and sport's lover. Here are his recommendations:
1. Get them clothes in their favorite colors or with their favorite characters to use while playing sports.
2. Take them to live sporting events so they can experience the excitement of sports in person.
3. Choose sports' programs when watching TV or playing video games. This could motivate kids to practice them when playing outside.
4. Give them toys that promote playing outdoors to "get them moving."
5. Spend family time outdoors and in places that promote physical activity, such as the beach or the park.
6. Come up with mini sport challenges at home. Try a new sport every week!
7. Play sports with your kids. This way you'll create a special bond with them that will be fun and exciting. Just make sure not to exceed yourselves so that your kids don't feel overwhelmed.
8.Sign up together to participate in a walk or run.
9.Invite your kids' friends over to your home to play soccer or to throw a frisbee or any other sport they may find fun.
10.Encourage them to try different sports and motivate them to get better at the ones they like the most or the ones they show the most aptitude for.
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