Smart Moves
Research has shown that classroom performance is improved if children are active. Whether your children are competitive athletes or not, it is important to find a way for them to stay fit and improve their coordination. The Queensland Government's Smart Moves - Physical Activity Programs in Queensland State Schools is a physical education program that promotes students being more active during school hours.
At home:
- Encourage play from an early age.
- Set a good example by being active yourself.
- Be active as a family by walking, riding bikes, swimming together and planning holidays where there are plenty of opportunities for physical activity.
- When buying presents for children think of something that will encourage them to be physically active.
- If your child is having difficulties with learning skills, provide positive encouragement.
- Restrict time spent watching television and playing on computers and electronic games.
- Emphasise having fun and reduce competitive situations for children still developing sporting skills.
At school:
- Find out what activities are offered at your child's school and encourage your child to participate.
- Take an interest in what your child does daily at school - in the classroom, health and physical education lessons, lunchtime and school sport.
- Inquire at your school about the Support an Active Learner program, a course for parents to develop skills to assist children being physically active at school.
- Volunteer to help in your child's classroom with physical activity and cross curricular activities.
- Offer assistance with major sporting events such as athletic and swimming carnivals, and interschool sports.
- Volunteer to be a coach, assistant coach, or manager of a sports team.
Looking for ideas?
For more advice and ideas about getting children active, visit the Department of Communities Sport and Recreation website 
More information can also be found on the Smart Moves webpage.
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This page was last reviewed on 17 Jun 2011
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