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Across the United States, schools and states and school districts have felt that taking away PE, music and art will help to upgrade our students scores and minds. This is opposite of what most research tells us. In light of this, it falls heavily on the parents to make sure kids are doing their share of taking part in physical activities. And, being an article on workouts for kids, I'll skip the lack of art and music at public schools.

Living in the great state of Hawaii, we of course have a sunnier climate that many. I'll talk to you about what we do here.

My daughter was purposely moved to a top school that is located by several great beaches and parks: Waikiki, Kapiolani, Sans Souci, Diamond Head and Kapiolani Tennis Centers, Waikiki Aquarium and the Honolulu Zoo.

Needless to say, during both the week and weekend we expose her to activities that require walking, running, swimming, razor riding, bike riding and tennis playing.

We do not favor any activity over another. For example, during a tennis tournament that I will take part in, my daughter will ride her bike around the park with my wife looking on. Later in the afternoon, my wife will play tennis and I will take my daughter to the beach to snorkel, swim and boogie board. For us, this is a typical Saturday.

It is in the mix and the fun level of the activities. My daughter, at the age of 7 1/2 is taking part in walking, swimming, hiking, playing various ball games (soccer, volleyball, football, tennis, etc.)

The family has built our activities around outdoor play. My daughter does the small PE at her school, but takes part in a lot of great outdoor play and is never bored.

The tip here is: create the opportunities, make it fun, mix it up and as a parent-be an active participant and role model.

Learn more about this author, Louis Marvin.
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