Active Kids/Active You

As a parent you feel swamped. Your "to do" list hits the floor; your phone has a dozen apps to "help you organize your day"; you are using Alexa (or something) to remind you to dust; and just when was the last time you took some time for yourself?

Stop. Just stop. As a parent who has been there and done that, it is time for you to take a stop in your life and seriously prioritize. Pick three to six things that are really important to you, write that down. Now take a look at those. Are your children listed? Or is it all work/home items? Think back to when you where a child, what stands out in your memories. If you are like me, you remember the fun times, and hopefully things you did with your parents. It was dad teaching us to ride a pony, milk a cow, and do chores. It was mom teaching us gardening, how to bake, and household chores.

Is there anything on your list that says "Taking Johnnie to ball practice"? Or "Driving to get all the things I need"? Probably not. It is BEING with your child, doing things WITH them. Sounds simple enough, doesn't it. Be active, learn new things, make memories. Your health and even mental health will thank you when you are actively involved. Make time to go swimming, play with a hula-hoop, blow bubbles. Look for activities in your community that are free; even walking thru a museum or zoo is good for your heart and your head!

Not sure where to start? Go back to your original priority list and look again. Is there anything in there that you can do with your child? If so, do it! If not, toss that list and start another. There are many things you and your child can do together for a healthy, active lifestyle. It can be as simple as teaching your child to help with dinner (maybe even cook!) or as complex as BOTH of you learning a new sport or activity. Croquet, anyone?