Children aged 5-12 years should be getting at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity every day. Active living involves various activities like dancing, skipping, running around the house or backyard, kicking a ball or flying a kite. As a parent, you can help your kids be more active by:  

• being a good role model. If your children see you enjoying physical activity and having fun, they are likely to want to join in.  

• encouraging them to play in the backyard, dance to music, ride a bike or get involved in activities like running, swimming, or sports such as soccer, netball or basketball.  

• making time to be active as a family - walking to the local park, going bike riding or taking the dog for a walk.  

• promoting 'active play' by buying gifts such as balls, bats, skipping ropes and other equipment. This helps them develop and practice new skills.  

• encouraging your kids to try different sports or activities, so they can find one or more they really enjoy and want to continue.  

• slowly increasing the level of physical activity your kids do, especially if they weren't previously very active.  

• Encouraging ‘active commuting’ like walking to school, the bus or the shops when safe to do so. 

• Reducing time spent on sedentary activities such as watching TV, playing video games & being on their phones.

Source: Raising Children's Network & NSW Health