Between school, homework, phones, tablets, video games, and TV, kids can spend a large part of their day sitting and looking at screens. Add in time spent in the car going to school, sports, and activities, and there may not be much movement left in the day.
After hours of sitting at a desk or looking down at a device, getting outside is a great way for kids to change positions, move their bodies, and take a break from technology. Prolonged screen time can also encourage a forward-head posture, which may contribute to tension or discomfort in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.
Fall is one of the best times to change that routine! The cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors make it a perfect season to get the entire family outside.
And remember—movement doesn’t have to mean a structured workout. Kids can benefit from simply getting outside, playing, exploring, and having fun.
Fun Ways to Get Moving This Fall
1. Take a family bike ride.
Grab the bikes and helmets and explore your neighborhood or a local trail. It’s a great way to get everyone moving while enjoying the changing leaves.
2. Go for a fall hike or nature walk.
Make it more exciting for younger kids by creating a scavenger hunt. Look for different colored leaves, acorns, birds, or other signs of fall along the way.
3. Visit an apple orchard or pumpkin patch.
A family outing can double as activity! Walking through an orchard, exploring a corn maze, or searching for the perfect pumpkin keeps everyone on their feet.
4. Play outside together.
Toss a football, kick a soccer ball, shoot hoops, play tag, or head to the playground. Kids don’t need to think of it as exercise—they just need to move.
5. Take an after-dinner walk.
Even a short walk around the neighborhood gives everyone a chance to move after a busy day of school and work. It can also be a great opportunity to talk and reconnect without devices.
6. Rake the leaves—and have some fun with them!
Yard work counts as movement, too. Get the kids involved, make a big pile, and of course, leave a little time for jumping in it!
Make It a Family Habit
Try choosing a few days each week to trade 30–60 minutes of screen time for outside time. Let the kids choose the activity so they’re excited to participate. And don’t forget—parents benefit from getting up and moving, too! Creating healthy habits doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it’s as simple as putting down the phone, grabbing the bikes, and heading outside together.
The screens will still be there when you get back. Enjoy the beautiful fall weather while it lasts!
Brittany Domier
Contact Me
