getting them out of the house reflects love, not revenge for driving you crazy. You will

need Outdoor activities A garden A camp A sports league Imagination and help from other

parents (optional). Step 1. Shut off the TV and forbid computer use, music listening,

and room dwelling during the day. Declare that any child inside will have chores to

keep them busy. Step 2. Teach them activities to occupy themselves, like flying kites or

playing outdoor games. Step 3. Challenge them to feats of energy and strength, including

running laps around the yard, hopscotch, and jump rope contests. Establish bonds with other

parents to keep an eye on each other's kids while they're outside. Step 4. Garden together

and help them to identify trees, bugs, foliage, and plants. Make it memorable and let them

plant vegetables or flowers they can nurse, groom, grow, and harvest. Step 5. Enroll them

in a summer day camp run by your local parks and recreation department or a local church.

Step 6. Register the kids for Little League. If you’re really ambitious, volunteer to

coach. Check out online play sites that suggest fun ways to occupy the kids. Step 7. Send

the kids on errands so that they can feel useful and responsible. Did you know Obesity

in children aged 6 to 11 years doubled between 1980 and 2006.