Keeping Kids Active

Christmas brings lots of toys — including those that make the players very sedentary.

Remember to take a break and get the kids up and playing — and keep exercise fun for the children.

Throw a ball, take photos while they ride their new bikes (or join them yourself on your new bike!), play basketball, take them to the playground and make sure they run their energy off.

When the weather becomes less accommodating, remember that malls have play areas that let them jump, dash about and play on soft, safe "toys" (such as oversized breakfast food, like the one in my neighborhood).

For those who have gym memberships, take the tykes with you. Most gyms have special programs for younger members. For those who are too young to play "big kid" games, make sure their babysitters provide activities that will help them burn off their energy.

At the end of the day, everyone will sleep well.