They run, jump, and play – or is that just me doing the running and jumping when the children are supposed to? But the reality of today is somewhat different. Children are spending most of their time either watching television or using mobile phones or laptops. The digital age has brought convenience, but it’s also contributing to a sedentary lifestyle that negatively impacts their physical and mental well-being.
K.R. Mangalam World School, one of the best schools in Ghaziabad, is actively addressing this concern by integrating physical activities into its curriculum, ensuring students engage in regular exercise alongside academics. Recognized by the Indian government as a ‘Fit India’ school, this CBSE school in Ghaziabad has made physical activity a crucial part of its curriculum.
In this article, we’ll explore why physical activity is crucial for children, how to incorporate it into their daily routines, and the long-term benefits it brings to their growth and happiness, while also looking at how K.R. Mangalam World School in Ghaziabad implements the same.
Why Does Physical Activity Matter for Kids?
The human bodies were designed to move. People covered 10 to 15 km a day in looking for food or performing other errands in the past. However, with the extensive use of technology and more so in the present generation children engage in very little physical activity; they move around an average of 1-2 kilometres per day mainly doing simple activities like going to the toilet or moving around within the house.
This lack of movement has consequences:
- Weaker muscles and bones
- Poor posture and flexibility
- Increased risk of obesity and heart problems
- Stress, anxiety, and behavioural issues
Exercise is not confined to physical well-being only but to overall mental health too. Physical activity is one of the effective ways of enhancing the mental health of children and adolescents, developing self-confidence and social skills.
Tips to Encourage Physical Activity in Kids
One of the biggest challenges that parents face is denying their children screen time, and at the same time motivating them to exercise. Here are some simple strategies to get kids excited about physical activity:
- Lead By Example, Be Active Together: Children are more likely to develop healthy habits when they see their parents actively participating. Make it a point to go for a walk or ride with your child in the evening. Sprinting in a park or relays and other basic games can be an ideal workout to consider. You can also participate in activities such as family yoga or stretches.
- Find Activities They Love: Exercise should be enjoyable and not like a tedious task that needs to be accomplished. Try new sports—whether it is badminton, basketball or swimming. If your child loves to dance then, register him or her for dancing class or even sing some music at home and have fun dancing.
- Introduce Traditional Games: Most modern children are oblivious to outdoor games that were in existence a time ago. Introduce them to games like hopscotch, kabaddi, and kho-kho. These games are fun and also assist in building motor skills and cooperation. Plus, it is such a good opportunity to act as a child again together with them!
- Replace Screen Time with Outdoor Play: Instead of rewarding children with more screen time, offer outdoor playtime as a reward. You can also create a simple schedule where kids earn extra minutes of park time for completing tasks.
- Involve Them in Household Chores: Tell them to assist with washing the dishes, tidying their home, or picking up groceries from the store. Assign small tasks that require movement, which will not only keep them active but also boost their confidence by making them feel like an essential part of the family.
The Long-Term Benefits of Physical Activity
For better functioning, basic nutritional needs, and overall health, children must get at least an hour’s exercise daily. Regular movement has a wide range of benefits:
- Stronger muscles and bones
- Better posture and balance
- Healthier weight range
- Reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes
- Improved mental health and ability to manage stress
- Better social skills and higher self-esteem
- Quality sleep, which is essential for growth and brain development
K.R. Mangalam World School, Ghaziabad: A ‘Fit India’ School
K.R. Mangalam World School is one of the best schools in Vaishali, Ghaziabad. Established to nurture future-ready individuals, the school offers a blend of traditional learning with modern methodologies. It is affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and provides students with a balanced curriculum that encourages both academic achievements and extracurricular engagement.
One of the school's standout features is its strong emphasis on physical activity, promoting well-rounded development. Students are encouraged to engage in a variety of sports such as yoga, taekwondo, and gymnastics, along with Western and Indian vocal music lessons. Facilities like a multipurpose hall, outdoor play areas, and indoor gyms ensure that physical well-being remains a core aspect of students' daily routines. Pre-primary children, in particular, benefit from thoughtfully designed play zones and Montessori labs, fostering joyful learning through movement and exploration.
The school takes pride in its student-focused approach, maintaining an optimal teacher-student ratio to ensure personalized attention. Beyond academics, K.R. Mangalam Vaishali introduces students to a diverse range of activities, from robotics and astronomy to visual and culinary arts. With over 230 CCTV cameras installed and GPS-enabled transport systems, the institution ensures a secure environment for all students.
For more information on this and similar schools in the area, check out this list of the best schools in Ghaziabad.
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