Inline and Roller Skating is a Family Affair

My spring classes are bringing in family groups - moms, dads and even grandparents with kids who all want to add skating to their summer and vacation activities. Their group inline skating lessons will result in a lot of family friendly fitness activity for everyone, either outdoors, in a rink or even on a team.

Once the lessons are done and everyone is skating independently, don't let your skating outings turn into kid-sitting sessions. There are many things each child can do to help make each family skating outing fun for everyone, including the parents:

• Let your children pick their favorite skate wear – for some reason kids skate better in their preferred clothing.
  
  
• Make each child responsible for packing a healthy snack and drinks.
  
  
• Let them organize and carry their own equipment – just another way to build muscle.
  
  
• Encourage each child to learn how to put on skates and safety gear properly together.
  
  
• Kids can help with basic skate maintenance and cleaning, when needed, too.

Of course, a lot of cross-checking will be necessary for a while, but you'll give your kids the gift of a routine of "preparing and doing" that will last lifetime for whatever fitness pursuits they choose. And right now your whole family will get a lot of healthy quality time.