Children’s fitness, a parent’s role. When it comes to children’s fitness, parents aren’t just supporters—they’re architects of active living. From the Stretch-n-Grow perspective, a parent’s role is pivotal in shaping not only a child’s physical health, but also their emotional resilience, social confidence, and lifelong relationship with movement.
Do not assume just because a child is wearing sports attire on sports day that a child is fully engaging in sports at school. I feel it is necessary to monitor children’s activities during the early years and encourage them to move if they are not naturally active
What Parents Can Do
- Model Active Habits: Children mirror what they see. Parents who walk, stretch, dance, or play regularly show that movement is a natural part of daily life.
- Create Opportunities: Whether it’s signing up for Stretch-n-Grow classes, visiting the park, or turning chores into dance-offs, parents can build movement into routines.
- Celebrate Effort: Applauding a child’s participation—regardless of skill—builds confidence and encourages consistency.
- Limit Sedentary Time: Setting boundaries around screen time and encouraging active alternatives helps children stay physically engaged.
- Stay Involved: Attending classes, reading handouts, and asking about what children learned reinforces the value of fitness and strengthens family bonds.
The Impact of Parental Involvement
According to Sprint Active, when parents actively support their children’s physical education:
- Children show higher levels of fitness, including strength and flexibility.
- Academic performance improves due to better focus and mood.
- Emotional resilience grows through encouragement and bonding.
- Social skills flourish as children learn teamwork and empathy.
Research also shows that when both parents share the responsibility of supporting physical activity, children—especially boys—are significantly more active.
Stretch-n-Grow’s Support for Parents
- Weekly updates and themed handouts that make it easy to reinforce lessons at home
- Instructor-led guidance on developmental milestones and movement goals
- Family challenges and hydration tips that turn wellness into a shared adventure
Stretch-n-Grow believes that parents are the heartbeat of a child’s wellness journey. By staying engaged, modeling healthy choices, and celebrating movement, they help raise children who are strong, confident, and ready to thrive.
More on Children’s Fitness
If Would you like help to get your children more atcive,or if you have questions and want additional information, Contact us. Stretch-n-Grow is a Worldwide Programme
