Our children's days are often packed full - running from activity to activity. They have sports interests, play instruments, get tutored, take art classes, and an endless list of other things that keep them busy and on their toes.

Whether they are in school or enjoying summer break, there are four things I think children should do on a daily basis.

Read
If your children don’t enjoy reading, read to them. Find other ways to engage them in the act of reading. Reading is one of the most important skills your children will develop, and it is important to help nurture their love for reading. Be persistent and don’t give up. If your children already love reading, make efforts to foster that love. Weekly trips to the library, comic books, playing games together, or creating a special reading corner are easy ways to open the door to a reluctant reader.

Play Outside
it is important for children to be outside and play in the fresh air. Let them explore and appreciate nature. Create activities outdoors for your children to enjoy. Sidewalk chalk art, water play, a nature walk - find something to engage your children in the outdoors. When outdoors, children can be messy, loud, and learn to take risks.

Responsibility
Giving your children responsibilities - sometimes called chores - will help foster independence, their self-concept, and confidence. Provide regular ways for your children to help out around the house. Allow these tasks to become part of your child’s routine, expectations of being a part of your household.

Be Active
Different from being outside, children should spend some time each day engaging in a physical activity. This is important for your child’s health, energy, and self-care. They may choose to ride their bike around the block or join you in your morning yoga. Teach your children to value being active and to recognize the benefits they receive from it.

Four things. Simple, yet powerful. Help your children find time in the day for these four things. The benefits? A well-rounded child with a foundation of values that will follow him throughout his life.