With that said, I realize that some of these activities may not even be possible for some kids. But even the activities they can attempt have one thing that no amount of PT can give them. FUN! I think one of the biggest challenges my daughter faces is lack of interest!
She doesn't even always want to go to PT because it is hard work with little or no reward (to a 5 year old that is). In the summer she is working her muscles without even thinking about it. To her she is just having fun!
This weekend for example...
-We went to the farmers market. We walked around for about 10 mins, had an ice cream break and then walked around for another 10 mins. This helped her build her endurance.
-She helped my mother plant flowers. She dug holes and watered the flowers. Both great for shoulder strength.
-Had a balloon fight. She was running around tossing balloons. Great for her endurance and practicing running. We had lots of breaks but she was out there for an hour and a half.
I will give a word of caution that I always need to remind myself. Make sure your kids aren't over doing it. Although my daughter didn't seem worn out during the water fight and wanted to continue, I pulled the plug a bit too late. She was pretty sore at the end and is totally wiped out today. She does this with swimming also. Unfortunately, her muscles can't keep up with her mind but I have to know when to say when! This isn't always easy when everyone is having fun!
Enjoy this summer and all the fun it brings! Also, remember to watch your child's pace. I know my always wants to keep up with other kids or is having too much fun to stop. I have to be the gatekeeper which isn't always fun. Either way it is more fun than sitting in a PT's office!
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