Many American homes have two full time working parents and kids who are in school. In these cases, the kids usually get home several hours before the parents. So that children don't become lazy couch potatoes, parents should make kids exercise an important part of the afternoons and evenings.

Many American homes have two full time working parents and kids who are in school. In these cases, the kids usually get home several hours before the parents. So that children don't become lazy couch potatoes, parents should make kids exercise an important part of the afternoons and evenings.

It's understandable that parents want to make sure their kids are safe after school. That's why many want their kids to stay home, instead of wandering around outside. But just because they're sitting at home alone, that doesn't mean they can't be productive.

Parents should consider, though, how much exercise their child gets each day. Many schools have restricted or cut out physical education. Most kids don't get the recommended hour of exercise each day at school. If they're not exercising at home then they may not be getting any physical activity at all.

Even if parents aren't home to monitor their kids' activity levels, they can make sure a child gets exercise every day. Make a house rule that when your child comes home from school they must finish their homework and chores before doing anything else.

Include in their chore list something that will help the evening go more smoothly. For example, they can unload the dishwasher so it won't have to be done after dinner. Or, they can make their own lunch for the next day. The chores will also get kids moving and burning calories.

Then, once you come home and dinner is finished, the whole family can exercise together. Take a walk or bike ride around the neighborhood. Or just play in the backyard with a ball. You may feel too tired for this, but exercise will give everyone energy and you'll be staying healthy together. Once you've had some play time, the whole family can then rest on the couch.

Kids exercise is important and it should be done after school, especially since there's no guarantee kids will get exercise during school hours. Use these suggestions to make sure your child gets the proper amount of exercise.