What about my children?

The American Heart Association recommends that children and adolescents participate in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day. Inactive children are more likely to become inactive adults. One way to help get our children moving is to start gradually reducing their amount of screen time. "Screen time" is a term used for activities done in front of a screen, such as watching TV, working on a computer, or playing video games. Screen time is a sedentary activity, meaning you are being physically inactive while sitting down. Very little energy is used during screen time.

Most American children spend about 3 hours a day watching TV. Added together, all types of screen time may often total 5 to 7 hours a day. It is recommended that children under age 2 should have no screen time and kids over age 2 should limit it to 1 to 2 hours a day.

Show All Answers

1. Why is physical activity important?
2. What do you choose?
3. How much physical activity do I need?
4. What is the difference between moderate and vigorous intensity?
5. How do I know if I’m working out at the right intensity?
6. What about my children?
7. How do I limit screen time?