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24 Hudson Valley Parent n September 2018 will improve a child's well-being in countless aspects of his life." Eliminate the competition For parents of kids who are not sports lovers, there's no need to be alarmed. There are plenty of lessons to be learned from physical education that are not geared towards competition. "For a child who does not enjoy physical activity, I would encourage finding something they like such as walking, swimming, bike riding, hula hoop, hopscotch, tag or rolling in the grass," suggests Riordan. "Physical movement and activity are imperative to a healthy life. It does not have to be at a competitive level." "Not every child is going to participate in competitive sports, but children are not inherently sedentary," says Mingst, referring to her thirty years of coaching experience with children and teens. "Get out with the whole family to enjoy time together doing something active!" Reach out to your community If your child has more interest in physical activity outside of gym class...go with it! Contact local parks and recreation or visit your town's website to see what types of activities and sports are available in your area. "Important life lessons that cannot be taught in a classroom can be nurtured and taught on the sports field or in a fitness class," insists Stasaitis. "Our ultimate goal is to help children and teens of all ages and backgrounds create a positive association with exercise and fitness." Michelle Peterson is a freelance writer living in Poughkeepsie with her spouse and two sons. GYM CLASS (Continued from Page 23) Fishkill 845-765-2240 Goshen 845-360-5530 Mon.-Fri. 8am-8pm, Sat. & Sun. 9am-4pm NEED URGENT CARE? We've got you covered! • Board Certifi ed Physicians • Fast Diagnosis and Treatment of non-life threatening illness & injury • Lab tests • School, Sports and Camp Physicals Open 7 days a week for your convenience No appointment necessary Most insurances accepted E x c e l - U r g e n t C a r e . c o m We see patients 4 months and up