How you can stay active as a family

With the rise of technology, the dynamic and relationships between family members have changed drastically in recent years. Younger children prefer to play their hours away on games consoles and computers, only appearing out of their room for the bathroom and food.

But there are still things you can do to not only strengthen those relationships but also to ensure your little ones are staying physically active and healthy.

During Leicester-Shire & Rutland Sport's 'Active Family' week, 142 sessions are being held across all districts to give parents the chance to enjoy a healthy half-term whilst the children are off school.

But as important as it is to keep your children healthy and happy, you can't ignore the fact that the adults in the house need to be taking part too. And with Active Family week, you can encourage each other as a family.

And doing so is easier than you might think. Here are just a few ways as to how you can stay active both in and out of Active Family week.

1. Walking

Although this helps if you've got a dog to walk, there's millions of people who enjoy going for a walk either alone or with others. And there is no reason why you can't do this as a family. As well as the health benefits, walking can be educational too – especially if you venture somewhere with plenty of trees, animals and history. For instance, a walk around Bradgate Park is one of the most popular family days out in the East Midlands.

2. Bowling/Trampolining/FootGolf

Though you have to pay for the facilities in the three listed above, they are fun days out that are guaranteed to be remembered. These are special days out that can be done as a family and are definitely something the children will be counting down the days for. With these all available in Leicestershire and Leicester, it's easier than you think. But if you do go bowling, make sure dad doesn't take it too seriously or a fun day out can turn into gloating and tears.

3. Play in the park

Take a football down to the park and your day is sorted. Something as easy as a kickabout can have huge health benefits and could even help children to improve their social skills. Even if you're not very good at football, chances are you'll get put in goal and can just watch them have fun without fear of not being good enough to play.

4. Build Something

Or go out and do something practical. Maybe build a den or little area from branches and twigs that are just hanging around outside and you can have hours of fun. Alternatively if it's a nice day, get out and do something as easy as washing the car. Teamwork makes the dream work – just make sure they don't talk you into paying them for it.

5. Make a routine

If you get into a routine, the entire family knows what is happening and when – and it becomes part of life. Sometimes routines can be bad but with sport and physical activity, it becomes something to look forward to. Whether that be Saturday morning tennis or a long walk every Tuesday after school, it helps you to connect as a family and spend quality time together.

Just don't be offended when they start favouring a day out with their mates over standing in the rain trying to fly a kite. Especially if they're a fully grown adult.