If you have school-age children, your family - like mine - is probably shifting into summer gear. Suddenly the kids have plenty of free time. And maybe they're perfectly happy to spend the whole day in front of the TV or computer monitor. But it's so important for a child's day to include plenty of physical activity. It's not just a matter of their health, though of course that's one benefit. As I'm sure you've noticed, kids are happier when they're active.

One of the best ways to ensure that youngsters get plenty of exercise is to plan family activities like swimming, biking, and boating. That's good for you too. Think back to your childhood summers, and dust off old favorites. Do you have a badminton set in the attic? Have you practiced shooting baskets lately? How about paddling around a lake in a canoe?

I've been enjoying evening runs even more now that one of my kids accompanies me on a bike. Our family spends weekends and vacation time in New Hampshire, and we try to hike in the mountains at least once a week. Often we're joined by friends and cousins - it's a great way to socialize as a family.

Here's wishing you an enjoyable - and active - summer.