It seems that daily on the news, we're told how our children are inactive and that it's leading to them being overweight and unhealthy. There is article after article advising how much heavier our kids are now versus 20 or 30 years ago. Childhood diabetes is on the rise and our children are at future risk of developing heart disease and other illnesses as a result of being overweight as a child.



Yes, things have changed in the last 30 years. And thirty years before that, people were saying the same thing. Our lives have evolved and technology has played an important roll in that evolution. Many families today are two income families both as a choice and as necessity.

Today's kids have an abundance of options available to them now that weren't available even 10 years ago let alone 30 years ago. Is this bad? Of course not! Kids love their Xbox and PS2's and the challenging games that accompany them. So how do you get your child to want to be more active? Offer them fun choices in addition to the video games and TV shows that they often pick up as soon as they walk in the door.

It's easy to provide your children with activities in the summer ? the days are longer giving you more time to get home from work and get outdoors with them. Pedal cars are a throwback to a simpler time and kids find them so cool since many look like grand old jalopies that most kids don't see these days. Another option guaranteed to get your children moving is a ride on toy that duplicates mom or dad's Escalade or Hummer. Now what child wouldn't love to ride up and down the street on a child sized Hummer? Pretty cool stuff.

If you're lucky enough to have a pool in your backyard, your children probably beg you to head outside ? whether it's warm enough or not. I remember when I was a child jumping into a 60 degree pool and loving every minute. There are many pool toys available guaranteed to get and keep your kids in the pool for hours of clean, healthy fun. Just remember to apply sunscreen often to avoid any sun burns.

I bet you can use a break too. A great way to unwind and relax is to go camping. It's a great activity for the whole family and really quite inexpensive. I know what you're thinking ? your idea of camping is the Holiday Inn, right? A few well spent dollars will guarantee that you are just as comfortable camping as you would be in a hotel. My number one recommendation - pick up an air mattress. They are actually pretty inexpensive but will make a world of difference in your comfort level.

Get a tent large enough for the whole family. A campground is one of the safest places your children will ever play. Let them enjoy their freedom and after they roast those final marshmallows over the fire, they'll crawl into the tent and sleep like you've not seen them sleep in a long time. How happy they'll be the next morning when they wake up and see Mom or Dad right next to them. Even one night camping can make a difference ? for your children and you too.

My parents took me camping when I was a kid and I've done the same with my daughters. The quality time you spend with your kids can never be replaced and your children will have memories that will last them a lifetime.

Again, video games are okay. It's just a matter of balancing all the choices your children have and making sure that they have some fun, outdoor activities to choose from too.