Dear Families ,
Jump rope , play tag , ride a bike , or just run — how important is it for your child to get up and get moving ? For starters , physical activity helps control weight , reduces blood pressure , raises “ good ” cholesterol , and reduces the risk of diabetes and some kinds of cancer . It also improves self-confidence and self-esteem , can improve moods , and can help improve sleep . That ’ s all good news ! The American Heart Association recommends that all children ages two and older participate in at least 60 minutes of enjoyable , moderate-to vigorous-intensity physical activity every day ( that means vigorous activities that are appropriate to their age and stage of physical and emotional development ). The benefits go beyond good health : physical activity can bring a family together , it doesn ’ t have to cost any money , and it ’ s fun !
Remember , your child doesn ’ t have to do 60-minute workouts . Shorter periods of physical activity throughout the day will benefit your child too .
Sincerely ,
Teacher
� Good to Know !
Here ’ s a fact : healthy kids have better grades in school , have better attendance , and behave better in class . Getting active is an important step to good health ! Learn more at heart . org / kids .
Your child is a participant in the American Heart Association ’ s KIDS HEART CHALLENGE . The AHA has five priority messages for your family :
Physical Activity
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Healthy Eating |
Reduce Sodium |
Limit Sodas and Sugary Drinks |
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Tobacco / Smoking |
Research shows that active parents raise active children .
Join your child with these tips to work activity into your daily routine :
• Get outdoors ! Hike a local nature trail or ride bicycles along a bike path .
• Schedule a family playtime . Take a walk or play a family game of tag . Play catch or kick a ball around the yard .
• Select toys that encourage movement , such as balls , kites , skates , sleds , and jump ropes .
• Limit screen time to no more than two hours a day . Don ’ t put a television in your child ’ s bedroom , and limit computer and tablet use to school projects .
• Plant a garden . Caring for plants provides a reason to get outside , teaches kids where their food comes from , and lets your child sample fresh grown foods to encourage healthy eating habits .
• Do chores , such as raking leaves and shoveling snow , as a family . The work will be completed more quickly , leaving more time for outdoor play !
© Copyright 2021 American Heart Association , Inc ., a 501 ( c )( 3 ) not-for-profit . Kids Heart Challenge is a trademark of the AHA . Unauthorized use prohibited . DS-18008 8 / 21