Helpful Ways to Reduce TV Time

With the school year coming to a close soon, children will be enjoying summer vacation from school work and schedules for a time. How do you keep kids off the couch and staying active on their days off? Here are a few simple tips to help your children reduce their TV time and increase physical activity in order to maintain a healthy weight.

• Know how much screen time, active time your family is getting. By knowing how much screen media, including TV, DVD, video games and non-school- or work-related computer and Internet use, your family spends and how much physical activity they get, you will be more aware of their needs for physical activity to maintain energy balance.

• Talk to your family. Explain to your children that it's important to sit less and move more to stay at a healthy weight. They will also be more energized, have a chance to practice certain skills (such as riding a bike or shooting hoops), and have fun with friends and peers. Tell them that you also are going to limit your screen time and increase your physical activity, so you will all be working toward this goal together.

• Set limits on screen time. Set a house rule that your children may spend no more than two hours a day of screen time. More importantly, enforce the rule once it's made.

May: National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Health and fitness are personal responsibilities and important national goals for our citizens. During National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, we highlight the benefits of exercise and the value of participating in sports.

It is important for all Americans to participate in activities that help maintain a healthy lifestyle. Outdoor activities such as walking, running, swimming, and biking are good for the mind, body, and soul. Regular physical activity and healthy eating habits can help reduce stress and lower the risk for many chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and depression.