There was a time when getting kids to come inside was the hard part. Bikes left in the driveway, games of tag that stretched until dusk and pickup basketball or backyard adventures filled long afternoons. Today, for many families, the bigger challenge is pulling kids away from screens. As screen time rises and outdoor play becomes less routine, physical activity matters more than ever. Movement helps children build healthy bodies, stronger focus and emotional resilience — and with support from families and community spaces such as Ryves Youth Center, it can still be a natural, joyful part of childhood.

Why Physical Activity Matters for Kids

Regular physical activity helps children grow in ways that go far beyond fitness. It supports their bodies, minds and daily routines, making movement an important part of healthy child development.

The benefits of physical activity for kids include:

• Physical health: Regular movement helps children build strong bones and muscles, support heart health, maintain a healthy weight and improve coordination and balance. 

• Mental well-being: Physical activity can help reduce stress and anxiety, lift mood and give kids a healthy outlet for energy and emotion.

• Focus and learning: Active kids may have an easier time with attention, behavior and classroom performance, making movement helpful both in and out of school.

• Social development: Games, sports and active group play can help children practice teamwork, communication, resilience and confidence.

According to the CDC, children and adolescents ages 6 to 17 need at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. For children ages 3 to 5, the recommendation is to be active throughout the day. The CDC also notes that kids’ daily movement should include aerobic activity, plus activities that help build muscle and strengthen bones. Running, jumping, climbing, dancing, biking and active play all count.

What Keeps Kids From Being Active?

Modern life can make movement harder than it sounds. Packed schedules, limited access to safe play spaces, transportation barriers and too much screen time can all get in the way. The CDC and WHO both emphasize that children are more likely to be active when they have regular opportunities, encouragement and environments that make movement feel safe, enjoyable and age-appropriate.

That’s why community-based programs can make such a difference. The Ryves Youth Center, part of Catholic Charities Terre Haute, offers a safe place for children to feel accepted, motivated and supported. Our programs are designed to promote physical, educational and social development for children ages 3 to 17. Ryves offers activities including basketball, open gym, themed events, tutoring and homework help and other youth programming that helps kids stay engaged after school.

How to Get Kids Active Without a Daily Battle

Small, steady changes can help parents and caregivers create space (and excitement) for physical activity in their kids’ lives.

Here are a few practical ways to encourage physical activity for kids:

• Make it fun: Kids are more likely to stay active when movement feels like play, not punishment. Dancing in the living room, riding bikes, playing tag or shooting hoops can all help.

• Offer variety: The CDC recommends age-appropriate activities with variety. Mixing team sports, playground time, walks and free play helps prevent boredom.

• Start with what they enjoy: Not every child wants to play the same sport. Some prefer structured activities, while others like walking, jumping rope or active games.

• Build it into the routine: Walking to a nearby destination, playing outside after school or setting aside family activity time can make movement a normal part of the day.

• Choose supportive environments: Safe, welcoming community spaces can help children feel confident enough to participate.

For families, one of the biggest challenges is finding a place where children can be active, cared for and encouraged at the same time. Ryves Youth Center helps meet that need. Along with weekday meals, educational assistance and positive adult role models, the Youth Center offers programming that supports children’s health and ability to learn. That kind of environment can be especially meaningful for families looking for structured, enriching after-school options.

Helping Kids Build Active Habits

Encouraging an active lifestyle for kids involves helping children see movement as a normal, enjoyable part of life. A walk, a game of basketball, playground time or an afternoon at a community youth program can all help build that habit.

For families in the Wabash Valley, Ryves Youth Center is a strong example of what that support can look like: a place where kids can grow socially, academically and physically in a safe, encouraging setting. When children have access to active play, caring mentors and programs built around their well-being, everyone benefits. Learn more about Ryves Youth Center and how your child can get involved today.

Catholic Charities Terre Haute has been serving the community since 1973 and provides support across multiple essential needs, including safe shelter, food assistance and youth programming. We provide help and create hope by nourishing the minds, bodies and spirits of children, families, adults and seniors. By collaborating with community partners, we provide nutritious food, safe shelter, quality youth programming and essential personal and household needs to our neighbors. Donate today to support meaningful community change!