Have you been noticing what types of movement your kid enjoys doing? Do they enjoy running? If so, it might be time to start thinking about getting them signed up for fall’s Medtronic TC Family events. Between now and then, there are plenty of ways to keep your kid interested in running.
Start simple: Is there something they are already doing where you can incorporate running? Do they enjoy going for family walks? Try having mini races to the next biggest tree or stop sign. Is going to the playground part of the summer routine? Try a game of tag. Do you have a training run coming up? Try inviting them out for a quick warm-up down the street or around the block before you do your big run. The more you can incorporate running as a form of movement, the more natural it will become for them.
Make it social: Invite others to join. Are there other kids in the neighborhood that enjoy running? Your child may have made a friend at camp and they can try some running activities together. Do you have a running buddy or running group that has other adults with kids? Have a day where you all bring your kids to do a short family run/walk. Many adult runners know how powerful the social aspect of running can be and youngsters can learn that early, too.
Check out a new park or trail: If you’re local to Minnesota, you know plenty of rain has impacted a few trails. I know some of my favorite trails were washed out, but thankfully Minnesota offers many great trails and parks. Now is a great time to check out a new one. Bring your whole family, maybe make it a social event with other families. Make up a scavenger hunt for some added fun. Minnesotans know we have to soak up as much of summer as we can while it’s here.
These are just a few ways to incorporate running with your kid this summer. Remember to encourage and celebrate the effort along the way. We want to build a future generation of runners who will continue to enjoy the sport for many years to come.
Makara Fairman is a TCM Ambassador, RRCA Level 1 Certified Run Coach, and a Girls on the Run Coach. Follow her on Instagram here.