Here at the Y, we typically don’t encourage kids to sit down and watch a lot of TV. However, with the London Olympic Games premiering this Friday and airing over the next two weeks, we are glad to make an exception. 

The Olympics inspire kids. Every Olympian competing in the London Games this summer started out as a young person with a dream, and many of them grew up watching the Olympics, inspired by the athletes who came before them. More than just showing us the best athletes in America today, the Olympics keep the cycle going by motivating the athletes of tomorrow.

It’s about more than sports, though—it’s about staying active. Encourage your kids to get outside after the show is over and create their own Olympic Games. If they are interested in signing up for a sport and being like their favorite athlete, check out local classes that organizations like the Y offer in your area.

The Olympics are a great way to bond with your kids, whether you’re cheering on Team USA in the gymnastics finals or watching Michael Phelps zoom across the pool. Enjoy the games with your children, and tell them about how important it is to lead a healthy, active life. If they have a favorite Olympic athlete, talk to them about what it took for that athlete to get to the Olympics--determination, perseverance, hard work and a commitment to achieve their goals.

Whether they want to be in the Olympics someday, or they just want to have fun playing soccer with their friends, always encourage your kids to show good sportsmanship and to do their best. You’ll be helping them set themselves up to be healthy and active throughout their lives.

To bring the games a little closer to home, check out Olympians from the Kansas City area who are gearing up for the London games.

Did you know Olympic swimmers like Natalie Coughlin started out at the Y? Find out which classes your local Y offers.