Raising awareness Inactivity at any age results in the development of chronic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and a sedentary lifestyle can lead to premature death, according to the American College of Sports Medicine. Keeping children active * Set a positive example by leading an active lifestyle yourself. * Make physical activity part of your family's daily routine by taking family walks or playing active games together. * Give your children equipment that encourages physical activity. * Take young people to places where they can be active, such as public parks, community baseball fields or basketball courts. * Be positive about the physical activities in which your child participates and encourage them to be interested in new activities. * Make physical activity fun.