2. Play along
Whether your child wants to play hopscotch or tag, clamber on the jungle gym, or go inline skating, get active with him whenever possible. Your company may be just the spark your child needs to start being active on his own.

3. Postpone the homework
Let your child have a play period after he arrives home from school. He’s been using his brain all day. Now let him use his body.

4. Don’t let the rain stop them
Have plenty of indoor exercise instigators on hand, like jump ropes, mini basketball sets, hula-hoops, and music kids can dance to.

5. Keep the “gym” safe
Fence in the yard, install gates on all stairways, clear tables of dangerous objects, put safety guards on electrical outlets, keep TV and stereo wiring out of reach, and fit windows with childproof locks.

6. Make physical activity a social occasion
Children 12 and older may prefer a structured exercise class or a team sport where they can be active with their friends.

7. Get infants active, too
Let your baby spend less time in the car seat or portable swing and more time on the floor, rolling over and crawling for toys you put just beyond his grasp.