For those of us who struggle with finding stuff for the videogame generation that doesn't like to be active and just likes to sit by the TV, I think I have found a good option!

The Nintendo Wii is a video game system that makes the kids be active to play the game. You use motion with your arms, develop hand eye coordination and have fun doing it. It by no means offers as good of a workout as playing outside, but for those who can't get their kids to do that, this is a great option. I used this system at the YMCA during our late night program and the kids who sat around and talked and didn't want to play sports or exercise finally had something productive to do. The boxing was particularly successful and golf for some weird reason! And even though I am good at video games, I know my chronologically gifted members at the retirement community have played it, so it can help bridge a generational gap and give kids, parents and grandparents something to do together that everyone can enjoy!

In my humble opinion, if your kids are going to stay inside and veg out all day... this is probably the best way to do it! Has anyone had any positive or negative experiences with the Wii?

I found on the wiihealthy.com website that Professor Tim Cable said the following about the Wii and children being active:


I agree that the Wii is a very good way to get un-active children to be active. But as Tim Cable and Y's Guy said, children still need to find a way to get outside and be active too!

Ha, I found this very funny video of a baby laughing at the Wii Golf game!! I've embedded the video here for you to see! Watch it!