The best time to start building healthy habits is now! Discover how the founder of one of our favorite products is inspiring role models everywhere to nurture wellness in their children.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IS ONE OF THE MOST POWERFUL CONTRIBUTORS TO OUR HEALTH.

At FluidStance, our mission is to get the world moving, and we’re always exploring ways to incorporate more motion into daily life. Regular physical activity is essential for both physical and mental well-being. Research shows that movement not only enhances overall health but also boosts kids’ cognitive abilities and academic performance.

So why aren’t our kids moving enough?

“Kids today spend an estimated 85 to 90% of their waking hours sitting—at school, doing homework, commuting, or in front of screens—which negatively impacts their bodies and minds,” says Juliet Starrett, parent and cofounder of San Francisco Crossfit, in an interview with Fast Company.

Starrett is among many parents advocating for standing desks and active learning tools in schools. While active learning is a great start, there’s plenty we can do at home to model and encourage healthy habits:

As children grow older, it’s easy to relax screen time rules—especially during school breaks. To avoid falling into a sedentary routine, try setting mini-movement goals: for every 15 minutes of TV, do 5 push-ups or 15 jumping jacks. Join in to set a strong example and make it a family habit.

If you live near school, the park, or a community center, consider organizing a walking or biking group with other parents. Turning the commute into a social activity makes it more enjoyable and helps everyone stay active. Plus, it’s a great way to hit your own step goals.

For kids who are less inclined to be active, after-school programs or summer camps can provide a fun, engaging environment. These settings offer a chance to try new activities, make friends, and discover new passions.

While handing over a tablet or phone can be a quick fix for entertainment, it often leads to long periods of inactivity. Without natural breaks like commercials, it’s harder to encourage movement. Try using a yoga ball or a FluidStance Level to introduce subtle motion during screen time.

If your kids have been asking for a dog, now might be the perfect time. Assign them the responsibility of ensuring the dog gets at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. Better yet, make dog walks a family affair—it’s a great way to bond and stay active together.

WHEN KIDS SEE US PRIORITIZING HEALTH AND MOVEMENT, THEY’RE MORE LIKELY TO DO THE SAME.

Whether it’s evening walks, joining a sports league, or trying something new like rock climbing or surfing, showing your kids that you value physical activity sends a powerful message.

Swimming is another fun and effective way to stay active. Whether through professional lessons or teaching them yourself, it’s a great way to keep kids moving without it feeling like exercise.