When you were a child, you probably played outside a great deal. That was just a regular part of being a child.

Things have changed. Telephones, television, and computers have made a huge change in what being a child includes. Unfortunately, these three things are all done in a stationery manner.

Your child’s physical development has an order just like his learning does. He crawls, then walks, learns to march, loves to gallop and then hop, masters running and then learns to avoid running into things.

He also learns how to use a phone, the TV, and the computer. These three new skills tend to make him forget about the joy of his physical development as he learns to be more and more physical.

At the same time, moving is a skill that is important to prevent him from being overweight, helps him get in the habit of physical activity and increases his learning ability.

This change in your child’s development causes you to make some changes in what you do with him. To help increase his physical activity, you may need to be more involved.

Play games with your child that include your child being active. Throw the ball for him, march with him, or make an obstacle course for him. Encourage his movement and discourage him from TV and the computer for long periods of time. Remember that healthy habits start early.

Think about what sounds more appealing to you: watching a video or going outside for a bike ride? Which activity sounds the best to you has an impact on your child. Children who are active when they are young are more likely to stay active as they get older. Children who see their parents being active are also more likely to be active themselves.

There are many reasons to develop an active lifestyle for both you and your family. When exercise becomes a regular part of your life, it is easier to stay at a healthy weight, have more energy, sleep better, and feel better emotionally.

Children who run and climb develop stronger muscles. Being active and playing sports helps develop hand-eye coordination. Children use a lot of energy when they play.

Here are a few ways your family can develop a healthy lifestyle:

• Take the stairs instead of the elevator.

• Walk to the grocery store or to do errands.

• Limit TV, computer and video game time.

• Start each day with a healthy and nutritious breakfast.

• Do the household tasks like sweeping each day.

• Pack a picnic lunch and head to the park.

Remember that your child will be watching you. You are setting an example. Demonstrate the value of this healthy way of life. It will be good for him and for you.

Cynthia Martin is the founder of the First Teacher program and former executive director of Parenting Matters Foundation, which published newsletters for parents, caregivers and grandparents.