By Bruce E. Beans, Pure Matters It doesn't have to be
"exercise." Dr. Sothern, coauthor of Trim Kids, suggests an
"imagination station" inside, with space to dance and play with
hula hoops and balloons. Outside, fill a tub with toys, Frisbees
and balls. Here are some more tips from Dr. Sothern and other
experts: - Talk with your doctor before your child starts a
major physical activity, especially if he or she weighs too much
or has other health problems. - Cut the time you and your family
watch TV or play video games. Limit time on the computer to
30-minute sessions for homework. - Encourage unstructured
physical activity, especially for younger kids. "Have them play
tag, hide-and-seek, shoot hoops, explore a playground or nature
park, bicycle, scooter, fly kites, walk your dog, have a game of
catch or jump rope," Dr. Sothern says. - Bar homework, TV, video
games and the Internet for 30 to 60 minutes after kids get home
from school. Urge them to play outside instead. - Start slowly
and easily. As your childr