Digital Jungle Scripts: Turn Off, Tune In, and Get Moving: Fun Ways to Get Your Kids Active

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If you were inspired by my post ‘The Power of Movement: Inspiring Kids to Get Active and Break Free from Screens’

Here are some scripts parents can use to encourage children of different ages to get active and break free from screens. These suggestions are tailored to various age groups, offering positive and motivating language to inspire movement and creativity.

For Toddlers (Ages 2-4):

At this age, children are curious and love movement, so you can use playful language to guide them.

Script #1
“Hey, let’s play a fun game! How fast can you run from here to the tree? Ready, set, go!”

Script #2
“I need your help! Let’s build a big tower with blocks or pillows. We’ll need to move around a lot to make it tall!”

Script #3
“Let’s go outside and look for all the colors in the garden. Can you hop like a bunny to the red flower and then crawl like a bug to the green one?”


For Preschoolers (Ages 4-6):

These children thrive on imagination and love physical games that allow them to be creative.

Script #1
“Let’s have an adventure! We can pretend to be explorers in the jungle, jumping over rivers and climbing mountains (pillows or play structures). What do you think we’ll find out there?”

Script #2
“I bet you can dance faster than I can! Let’s put on some music and have a dance-off. Can you show me your best moves?”

Script #3
“How about we go on a treasure hunt outside? I’ll hide some things, and you can run, hop, and skip to find them!”


For Early Elementary (Ages 6-8):

Children in this age group are full of energy and enjoy challenges, competitions, and activities that push their physical boundaries.

Script #1
“I bet you can’t jump from one side of the path to the other without touching the ground! Let’s make a game of it—how many big leaps can you take?”

Script #2
“Want to try a new challenge? Let’s set up an obstacle course. You can climb, crawl, and balance through it. How fast do you think you can finish it?”

Script #3
“Let’s race to see who can do the most jumping jacks or skips on the pavement in one minute. I think you’ll beat me!”


For Tweens (Ages 9-12):

Tweens might need more motivation as screens and social media begin to take a larger role in their lives. Activities that appeal to their growing independence work well.

Script #1
“Let’s head to the park and try something new! How about we bring a football or a frisbee and see who can kick or throw the farthest? Maybe we can challenge each other to try something different.”

Script #2
“Want to make up your own workout? We can set up a circuit at home with running, push-ups, or jumping jacks, and see how strong we can get over the next week. I’ll join you, and we can track our progress together!”

Script #3
“Hey, how about we take a walk together and listen to some of your favourite songs? You can pick the route this time!”


For Teens (Ages 13-18):

Teens often have their own interests, so focusing on activities that align with their personal preferences and independence is key.

Script #1
“You’ve been working hard on [schoolwork/gaming], let’s take a break and get some fresh air. How about a quick run or bike ride around the neighbourhood? It’ll clear your head.”

Script #2
“What do you think about trying a new sport or physical hobby? I know you like challenges, so maybe we could sign up for something like a climbing wall or kayaking this weekend!”

Script #3
“I know you enjoy being online, but getting your body moving is just as important. Let’s try a fitness app together—it’s like a game, but for your body. We could set a goal and work towards it as a team!”


For All Ages: General Phrases to Inspire Activity

  1. “Let’s take a screen break and move around for a bit. Your body will thank you!”
  2. “I’ve been sitting too long! Want to go outside and play/run/dance together?”
  3. “How about we mix up some screen time with an activity? You pick what we do, and we’ll have fun moving.”
  4. “Being active can be fun! What’s something you’d like to do today? We could go for a walk, ride bikes, or play a game.”

These scripts are designed to gently guide children and teens away from screens and toward movement in an engaging and positive way. They provide ideas for creative, fun ways to inspire activity at home and outside.

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