If your children are bouncing off the walls, we have fivet active ideas to safely channel their energy.
Even if your child isn’t high-energy, kids aged six to 17 should rack up at least 60 minutes of activity daily according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
And since our suggestions will keep your little one occupied and entertained, affording you some well deserved “me time”, everyone stands to benefit!
Five ways to burn off energy
Create your own obstacle course
Obstacle courses are a great way to get kids off the couch. They encourage thinking, problem-solving, and lots of physical movement.
Even the littlest competitors can get involved in the building stage by stacking cushions, lining up baskets and chairs, making mazes out of toilet paper, or sorting balls. Once the course is complete, time your child’s first round and then challenge them to beat it!
Personal best
Document the number of push-ups, sit-ups, jumping jacks, long jumps, or other exercises your little one can do in a row. Children can compete with themselves – track the results weekly – or with friends. Can your child do more than they could before?
Simon Says
Sometimes the oldies are the goodies! This classic children’s game sees one player take the role of ‘Simon’ and issue instructions. The others have to obey the commands – to clap their hands, touch their toes, spin in a circle – that start with “Simon Says” or risk being eliminated.
If they obey the command but ‘Simon’ hasn’t said “Simon Says,” they are also eliminated. The ways to burn off their energy are endless!
Animal Farm
Get your overactive kids to enact the moves of their favorite animals. Hop like a bunny, slither like a snake, waddle like a duck, crawl sideways like a crab… you get the gist.
Set up races and see who reaches the finish line first! Brownie points for unusual animal choices.
Take a dance class
While the above ideas are all great ways to help children burn energy, do give a thought to your neighbors. If you live above or in close proximity to someone, it’s time to take a dance class!
Dance to EvOLvE is a mobile dance company offering high-quality, affordable, and fun children’s dance classes in tap, ballet, and hip hop – to burn off your kiddo’s endless energy – at multiple locations in and around Chicago, Cleveland, and San Diego.
To find out more and to join one of our friendly dance classes, please visit dancetoevolve.com
Let’s Dance America!