"Believe It or Not, Even I Think TV Can Get Pretty Old Sometimes."

"Parental involvement is key not only in children's academic development, but in their physical development as well," says Jack Kern, Ph.D., associate professor of health and physical education at the University of Arkansas. "In fact, children who engage in regular physical activity are better able to focus on their academic work."

Here Are Some Kid-Approved Ideas for Getting Kids Out of Couch-Potato Mode:


• Set a daily limit on the amount of TV kids can watch.
• Next time you consider going to a movie, do something active instead: rollerblading, ice skating or roller skating. You can always rent the movie later.
• Find an activity that the whole family enjoys, such as bike riding, and plan at least one outing a week.