Kids can break from school, but not exercise

DUPAGE COUNTY—Children get a break from school in summer, but the DuPage County Health Department reminds parents that does not mean their children should get a break from exercise.

Regular physical activity in childhood and adolescence improves strength and endurance, helps build healthy bones and muscles, helps control weight, reduces anxiety and stress, increases self-esteem, and may improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Here are just a few ideas from the Health Department to keep kids active this summer:

• Make family time physical activity time.

• Build physical activity into your family's daily routine. Take a walk after dinner together or do housework or yard work together.

• Use local, low-cost, or free places like public parks, baseball fields and basketball courts to be active.

• Attend family nights or other physical activity events at your Neighborhood Resource Center, YMCA or park district.

• Be active whenever possible. Try to walk or ride bikes instead of using the car.

• Include physical activity breaks in events such as vacations, long car trips or visits to relatives and friends. Bring along jump ropes, kites, beach balls or other items that stimulate physical activity.

For more information on the DuPage County Health Department, follow us on Twitter @DuPageHD or become a fan on Facebook.

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