As children head back to school, the amount of time that they are asked to sit during the day increases drastically. Summer provides many opportunities for play, and then suddenly they are thrust back into the daily routine, where the demands of school and homework require them to sit for much longer periods. As a result, it is important to keep child moving during time periods that they are not in school. Here are a few tips on how to incorporate movement into a child's daily routine:

1. Walk/Bike to School: Walking or biking to school allows a child to start their day off with some exercise, which allows them to better organize and regulate their sensory systems prior to being asked to sit for prolonged periods of time at school. If your child's school is too far away to walk, try parking a few blocks away and walk the remainder of the way to school rather than dropping your child off directly in front.
2. Create an Obstacle Course: After you child gets home from school, allow them an opportunity to play prior to beginning their homework. They have just been asked to sit all day at school, and will likely need a movement break prior to being ready to sit and engage in more academic work. Try creating an obstacle course outside with activities such as hopscotch, jump rope, jumping off of surfaces, running, skipping, etc. This allows them to work on their gross motor skills while also providing them with a movement break and a chance to regulate their sensory system.
3. After School Activities: Encourage your child to get involved in an after-school activity, whether that is a play-date with peers or a structured sports program. It is recommended that children get an average of one hour of physical activity each day.