The Advantages of Promoting an Active Lifestyle for Children

A recent Oxygen Indoor Activity Park survey* led by Steve Wilson, MD of Oxygen Freejumping, shed light on the issues parents face in getting their kids active, with a staggering 81% of children in Essex failing to meet the government’s recommended one hour of physical activity a day and one-third of parents saying it is difficult to get their kids active.

The summer break poses an even bigger challenge, with a fifth of children only engaging in one hour of activity per week during this period and 19% of respondents revealing that their children prefer gaming and social media over physical activity.

While these eye-opening findings reveal the urgent need to address the sedentary lifestyles among young ones, there is hope, as 71% of Essex parents want their children to engage in more physical activity.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of active play for children’s physical and mental well-being and how we can provide a fun and exciting solution to get kids moving.

The Benefits of Active Play for Children

Engaging in regular physical activity brings a plethora of benefits for children’s overall well-being. Let’s explore some of the advantages:

• Physical Development: Active play helps in developing strong bones, muscles, and motor skills, which are vital during childhood growth and development.

• Cognitive Enhancement: Physical activity stimulates the brain, promoting better concentration, problem-solving skills, and memory retention.
  
  
• Emotional Well-being: Engaging in physical activity releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones, reducing stress levels and promoting emotional well-being.

• Social Interaction: Active play fosters social interactions, encouraging teamwork, communication, and conflict-resolution skills.

• Healthy Habits: When physical activity is integral to their routine, children are more likely to continue an active lifestyle as they grow older.

• Boosted Self-Esteem: Achieving physical milestones and mastering new skills through active play enhances children’s self-confidence and self-esteem.
• Better Sleep Patterns: Getting enough exercise helps regulate their sleep patterns, improving their rest and overall well-being.

Tips for Keeping Children Physically Active

To make the most of summer and promote an active lifestyle, Oxygen Trampoline & Activity Park offers these valuable tips for parents:

• Limit Sedentary Activities: Reduce the time spent on sedentary activities like watching television to no longer than an hour. Excessive screen time has been linked to an increased risk of being overweight and obesity in children.

• Lead by Example: Be a role model for your child by prioritising and engaging in physical activity yourself. Show them that being active is enjoyable and essential for everyone.

• Integrate Physical Activity into Daily Routine: Make physical activity a part of your family’s daily routine. Schedule designated time for family walks, active games, or visits to outdoor parks and activity centres.

• Make it Fun: Keep physical activity enjoyable by associating it with fun experiences. Encourage playfulness and excitement during active play from an early age.

• Try New Activities: Motivate children to try different activities and offer positive reinforcement. This can help them develop various motor skills and discover new interests.

• Promote Overall Well-being: Highlight the numerous benefits of regular exercise, such as improved physical and mental well-being, reduced anxiety, and better sleep quality.

• Break Activities into Chunks: The recommended 60 minutes can be broken into smaller segments throughout the day, making it easier to fit into a busy schedule.

Leap into Action and Embrace Active Play at Oxygen Freejumping

The statistics regarding inactive children in Essex are concerning, but hope for positive change exists. By prioritising physical activity and making it enjoyable for children, we can promote healthier lifestyles and happier kids.

At Oxygen Freejumping, we’re dedicated to providing a supercharged and entertaining experience for children and families alike. Our interconnected trampolines, foam pits, dodgeball, and more promise an adventure that keeps kids active while they have a blast.

…and join Oxygen Freejumping in promoting an active lifestyle for children and let us be your family’s ultimate destination for fun and fitness.

* The survey was conducted from June 8 – 23, 2023, among parents and guardians in Essex, representing just over 700 children.

For further information, please contact david.bell@oxygenfreejumping.co.uk