It’s no secret that teenagers can be hard to motivate when it comes to being active and eating healthy. They often want to do things that are not good for them, and they don’t always see the value in healthful habits. However, there are many benefits to keeping your teen active and healthy. So, how can you get your teen to get up and be active? There are endless opportunities for activities that will keep them busy. Here are seven fun ways to do it.
- Go for a Hike with Your Teen
Take advantage of the warmer weather and go hiking. Teens spend a lot of time laying on the couch looking at social media or watching TV. Getting outside and going for a hike provides many benefits. Some benefits include physical activity, unplugging from technical devices, play and improved mental health.
- Encourage Your Teen to Join a Sports Team
Sports obviously provide physical activity and can help your teen maintain their health. But did you know that they provide social benefits, help format identity, and can even improve academic achievement? Have them try soccer, baseball, basketball or tennis. Try something new like pickleball to keep them active and healthy overall. Find the best pickleball paddles for beginners to get you started.
- Ask Your Teen to Walk the Dog
Chances are your family has a dog. Encourage your teen to get off the couch, get out of the house and enjoy the fresh air by taking the dog on walks. Along with providing activity, it also gives your teen a sense of responsibility and helps them learn how to take care of another living creature. If you don’t have a dog, have your teen volunteer to walk a neighbor’s dog. How about starting a dog walking business? They will enjoy the extra cash while getting some fresh air and physical activity.
- Devise a Scavenger Hunt
There are many benefits to participating in a scavenger hunt. It teaches teamwork and problem-solving skills and provides exercise for the body and mind. The focus required can even help your teen diagnosed with ADHD in addition to functional medicine for ADHD. That’s not all! It also is a great alternative for your teen and their friends to keep them busy and off their phones.
- Visit a Local Battlefield or Historical Site
Visiting historical sites is a great way to contribute to your teen’s education. It’s a more tangible way to learn about historical events. However, it also presents another way for your teen to get out of the house and remain active. Whether you visit a local battlefield or another historical site, you will walk around the location possibly even discovering things you never knew.
- Go for a Family Bike Ride
Everyone in the family can join in on a bike ride, from your youngest child to the grandparents. This fun activity provides exercise. It also offers an opportunity for communication and family bonding. This activity can also provide some benefits to your teen’s mental health.
- Encourage Your Teen to Get a Part-time Job
With a part-time job, your teen will earn extra money but also learn important skills. They will learn time management and organization skills and will also build character. Plus, this is another way that your teen will continue to remain active and healthy.
There are many benefits to keeping your teen active, including improved mental and physical health. This is just a short list of ways to help get them moving. Use these suggestions and include your teen in making choices to keep them busy. By being active together, you can bond with your teen while also promoting a healthy lifestyle.