Helping kids move with purpose: Building skills for life
GETTING children active with intention is more vital than ever.
Whether through organised sports, kids’ gym classes, athletics, dance, gymnastics, or swimming, purposeful movement shapes their physical and emotional development.
When children engage in activities that challenge and excite them, they improve coordination, confidence, and learn teamwork, perseverance, and goal-setting.
Physical activity benefits children’s wellbeing in many ways: it boosts metabolism, helps maintain a healthy weight, and strengthens muscles and bones.
Beyond physical benefits, regular movement influences mood, sleep, and energy. Active children tend to be happier and more resilient, better equipped to handle life’s stresses.
Sports and activities promote social skills and friendships, encouraging children to enjoy movement as a lifelong source of joy.
Nutrition is just as important.
Sadly, many parents find healthy eating tough amid busy schedules, often resorting to packaged foods, sugary drinks, and treats as quick rewards.
Rewarding good behaviour with sweets distorts children’s relationship with food, linking “good” with sugar and treats. Instead, we should celebrate effort, activities, and positive choices with praise and non-food rewards.
Foods with excessive sugar, artificial colours, and additives are addictive and can have serious effects on children’s bodies—impacting behaviour, mood, teeth, and immune health.
Teaching kids to enjoy wholesome, minimally processed foods fosters habits that support mental, emotional, and physical health.
While it can feel overwhelming, small changes make a huge difference. We are 100% in control of what our children eat—until they have their own money.
The food and treats we introduce shape lifelong habits. The battle becomes harder when boundaries aren’t set early.
The key is to lead by example. Show your children how to enjoy nutritious foods and stay active.
Creating a supportive home environment makes it easier to build healthy routines that last a lifetime.
Starting early is the best way to set children on a path to lifelong health and happiness.
ALI BENNETT - Allied Fitness
