Why Should You Keep Teens Active During the Summer
Adolescents eagerly look forward to summer vacations to enjoy the much-needed break, but as parents it is your responsibility to make sure that they do not spend the whole vacation just sleeping or sitting in front of the screens.
Ensuring that teens stay active during the summer is imperative for their physical as well as mental health. Regular physical activity is the key to prevent chronic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease, as well as improving mood, reducing stress, and boosting cognitive function.
Wondering how to keep your teens active this summer? Here are some tips that can prove helpful:
Outdoor activities: Summer is the perfect time for fun outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, biking, and playing various sports. Talk to your teen to figure out what outdoor activities interest them to explore and develop new skills. When they find something they love, they are more likely to stick with it.
Ask them to remain physically active: Help your teen find a sport or activity that they enjoy. It can be anything from dance to martial arts to rock climbing.
Establish a routine: Having a set time for physical activity can help make it a habit that your teens may enjoy even after the summer break is over.
Make time for family outings: Plan family outings that involve physical activity such as going to the beach, hiking, or playing mini golf. This will not only keep your teen active but also help create family bonding time.
Limit screen time: Increased screen times in teens is one of the most common problems that parents complain of. Summer vacation should not turn out to be an excuse for your teen to get more screen time. This can be a challenge, but as parents you should make sure that your teenagers find a balance between screen time and physical activity.
Make them participate in community events: Look for community events such as charity walks or runs, outdoor concerts, or festivals that involve physical activity. This can be a great way to get your teen involved in their community while staying active.
Make sure they eat healthy: Eating a healthy and nutritious diet will help your teen not to feel sluggish during their vacations.
The Bottom Line
Regular physical activity can help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost self-esteem. By encouraging your teens to stay active during the summer, you are setting them up for a lifetime of healthy habits.
If you feel like your teen is having a hard time or is under stress it is better to consult an expert in adolescent health care. You can call us today to book an appointment for enhancing your teens overall health.