With so much entertainment easily available on the homefront (television, video games, computers, etc.), we often forget that the performing arts are alive and kicking in communities across the nation - and much of this is low cost or free. 

Take some time to search out what is available and get in the habit of going out to an event - live music, dance, theater...or other live performance - at least once a month.

Part of the fun is just the outing. Have you ever watched young children at an event? The learning is tremendous - tons of people, tons of language, tons of new information about the world.

Many of our homes are so comfortable, with so much ‘easy’ entertainment available, we have trouble putting our finger on why we are ‘low energy’ or ‘feeling a little down’. Then we go outside and we feel fresh air! We feel sun! We look at cloud formations! We people watch! Our bodies move!

Also, please note that children who are not very young actually can go outside by themselves. This is a great opportunity for them to feel a little freedom (and that is part of the joy of the experience).

Outside time can open up a whole new world of learning that can be incredibly powerful for children.

All of your children may be involved in daily sports activities, but for many families, for many reasons, this is not the case. There are many ways to make this happen. For example, you can create a “30 minute rule” that applies to both screens and homework. Once you have been sitting and watching or sitting and working for 30 minutes you have to break for an exercise routine. This could include jumping jacks, pushups, and situps (or alternate core activities) or it might be something like 5-10 minutes of yoga or jump rope.

Another way to get daily movement is to include it early (before it gets dark) and then schedule time for more sedentary activities later. Go for a walk before dinner if you can! Many children now associate physical activity with organized sports. While organized sports have a lot to offer, opting out should not mean opting out of daily physical movement. Support your children by talking with them to find out their exercise interests, but hold the line on requiring daily exercise. Healthy body. Healthy mind. Healthy life.