Toddlers are children that need to develop their physical capabilities like walking, running and dexterity. I am posting this discussion because I can see a lot of toddlers who are hooked to tablets and phones. It is like their dexterity are only on the virtual keyboard or screen of the gadget. What is the use of the playground now? And how do those kids would be like when they grow up without experiencing gasping for breath because of excessive running?
I've seen a lot of estates that are being constructed now putting in basketball courts and skateparks which also act as a spot where kids can come with their bikes and do some tricks . The problem is that all of these is only happening in well developed neighborhoods, which translates to expensive neighborhoods. The most important question we need to ask ourselves is, will these kids who are always glued to the screens of their smartphones, going to use those activity spots without a figure of authority (parent/guardian) taking charge of the situation?
Physical activity is paramount to one's well-being, so it's really advisable to get your kids involved in exercise, so that they won't be overweight or be isolated.
Having your kids interact with other kids also helps in building character. The interaction between them helps in building a bigger personality which makes them social.
A lot of this comes down to the parents - this is a good thing though, because it gives us the opportunity to change things. It easy to hand a tablet to a toddler and have the software entertain them for hours on end. Some computer activities can even be beneficial. Of course, because it's so convenient for parents, it's easy to let children spend too much time on the tablet, phone or computer. The best way (in my opinion) to encourage an active lifestyle is to live one yourself. Get into a habit of going on walks, getting your heart rate up, etc. Make a conscious decision to go outside and play sports with your child. Set a positive example and actively involve your children in it. It's harder to ask a child to go do physical activity, if we are unwilling to do any of it ourselves. Teaching good lessons starts with living those lessons ourselves.
That makes a lot of sense. I totally agree with what you said, leading by example is the only way to get your kids on the playground.
I find good parents here in thinking ways of motivating their children to play physical games. The most common here is the bicycle which is getting popular among the young children here. There's also the ball for football and volleyball. Children in the neighborhood enjoy playing with each other. And the parents provide the refreshments after the game. I'd say that is good enough motivation.
The digital world has become everyone's world including the kids . There is so much out there that it is difficult to wean them away. If no child is interested in playing how can you get your child to play? What the school organises is the only hope
Now that there is no school in most countries, I feel like the best way to get your kids involved in physical activities, is by including the whole family. Make it an everyday thing and it might just work. Also remember to make it fun.
We don't tolerate toddlers or kids to use electronic gadgets until they know how them to benefit them. By letting them play it with no problem guidance is dangerous. They should be guided properly but not to press their freedom.
Like everything else, this also falls upon the parents' shoulders to ensure the kids get adequate physical exercise. Since the playgrounds are closed everywhere due to Coronavirus, the parents can prepare an exercise regimen and do it along with the children so all get good exercise and stay fit.
That is right that you mentioned the playgrounds. Children should not be allowed to play there for now while the virus is still around. Even in the mall arcade it is not healthy for someone to be playing on the machines there. Maybe parents should find some worthwhile activities for the kids at home and not in the neighborhood like the children here that I see on the streets playing and biking.
