Building Healthy Families: Why Active Kids Start at Home

We often hear, “kids today are different,” and in many ways, that’s true. Their world is full of screens, fast food, and less natural play. While technology has brought many benefits, it has also made it easier for families — especially children — to be more sedentary than ever before.

One major consequence is that our children are moving less, gaining weight faster, and experiencing health issues both now and into adulthood.

Rather than blaming schools, media, or technology alone, the biggest difference starts with us — parents and caregivers. Because when we say “Do as I say,” our children are really watching what we do.

The Health Situation in Australia

• Over 60% of Australian adults are overweight or obese; nearly 10% are in the severely obese category.

• About 25% of Australian children and adolescents are overweight or obese as well.

• Australia ranks among the top five most obese countries globally.

Childhood obesity doesn’t just disappear. It’s strongly linked to long-term health risks like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, joint issues, and mental health challenges.

The Movement Gap & Screen Time

Physical inactivity is a key contributor. In Australia:

• Children aged 5-17 are recommended to get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily, but many don’t meet this guideline. 

• Younger children (ages 2-4) have a recommendation of 180 minutes of physical activity daily. 

• Hours of screen time for entertainment are also supposed to be limited, but often are not. 

Establishing movement habits early — such as active play, family walks, or home workouts — builds coordination, strength, agility, and sets a pattern that supports lifelong fitness.

Nutrition & Healthy Eating

• Only 7% of Australian adults meet the guidelines for daily vegetable intake.

• Fast food and convenience foods are often overrepresented in family meals, leading to excess calories and low nutrient density.

For families, making small changes like cooking more meals at home, eating together, and introducing vegetables in fun ways can improve overall health, reduce obesity risk, and support stronger immune systems.

How NDIS & Inclusive Fitness Fit In

For children with disabilities, unique physical and developmental needs, or those who need extra support, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can be a pathway to accessing services and supports that help build strength, coordination, and confidence.

Some NDIS-funded supports that relate to children’s fitness include:

• Exercise physiology or personal training tailored for children with disability, focusing on gross motor skills, functional mobility, and balance.

• Programs to improve fine motor skills, spatial awareness, coordination, endurance, and adaptability.

• Adaptive equipment or assistive fitness tools that support participation in physical activity, sport, play, or recreation.

• NDIS funding categories like Capacity Building (which may cover therapy, personal training, exercise physiology) and Improved Health & Wellbeing (where applicable).

Including NDIS-friendly fitness programs and equipment opens up access for families wanting inclusive options and supports digital searches by those seeking “NDIS exercise programs for kids”, “adaptive fitness equipment for children”, and “child therapy supports NDIS”.

Putting It All Together: Positive Change Starts Small

If we want active, healthy kids, leading by example is essential. Here are ways families can begin:

• Aim for daily movement—play outside, dance, ride bikes, or try family workouts.

• Limit sedentary screen time and encourage active alternatives.

• Make healthy eating a habit — involve kids in meal prep, introduce variety in fruits and vegetables.

• Seek out inclusive fitness options that cater to ability, not limit it.

How Fitness at Home Supports Families & NDIS Participants

At Fitness at Home, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to be active, strong, and confident — no matter their age, mobility, or ability.

We offer a wide selection of home fitness equipment, including adaptive and inclusive gear, to support children across different developmental levels. Whether your family is building a home gym, working on strength, coordination, or endurance, or accessing NDIS supports for exercise physiology or adaptive equipment, we have what you need.

Our aim is to help families stay active together, empowering every child by giving them tools to move freely, safely, and joyfully.

Ready to Move Forward?

Healthy habits are built through consistent, small steps. There’s no better time to start than now.

Explore our range of fitness equipment suitable for all ages and all abilities. Whether it’s for everyday movement, inclusive family workouts, or NDIS-funded supports, Fitness at Home has got you covered.