The 4 Best Kinect Games to Get Kids Moving

This year, my kids are being gifted an Xbox 360 with Kinect for Christmas from their uncle. This is not something I would normally have in my home as I want to encourage my children to be outside and active. However, my brother assured me that the Kinect is a great way for both my kids and I to be happy.

My sons (ages 7 and 10) are video game lovers. One of them is not a fan of sports or exercise so I want to make sure I'm providing movement opportunities for them as much as possible. Hiding it in a video game may just be the perfect way to do that.

Fruit Ninja

You and your kids will get a great arm workout with this game. Slice through fruit using your best ninja chops and leg kicks. You can play as a single play or in party mode as a tournament. Fruit Ninja is very precise so your kids won't get frustrated that it's not doing what they want it to do. This fun game can be downloaded through the Xbox Marketplace or it comes with the purchase of Gunslinger.

Once Upon A Monster

Once Upon A Monster brings your favorite Sesame Street characters to life. This award winning game will have you dancing with Grover, Elmo and Cookie Monster, running through the forest, or waving your arms wildly while you play the drums. Movement is mixed in with catchy songs and silly fun. Perfect for preschoolers and their parents to play together.

Just Dance

Whether you want to dance to current pop hits, theme songs from your child's favorite tv show or traditional favorites like Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes, Just Dance Kids has got you covered. Kids of all ages can jump, shake and wiggle with one of the three different levels (up to four players at a time) to some of their favorite songs. Older kids may enjoy Just Dance Disney Party or Just Dance Kidz Bop where songs kids have heard on the radio are sung by kids. No matter which version you choose, Just Dance gives the whole family a great opportunity to get the blood pumping while have a great time.

Kinect Sports

With Kinect Sports you and your kids can play table tennis, beach volleyball, soccer, bowling and track & field. Everyone will get some great movement while jumping, kicking and swimming their arms. They are easy to follow and sensitive enough that kids won't get upset when the game doesn't recognize their movements. Check out Kinect Sports or Kinect Sports 2 for some fun with the kids.

With Winter fast approaching and the temps dropping, getting the kids outside is difficult. With these great Kinect games, you and the kids won't miss on all the energy expending movement they need. Try out one (or all four) during your next game night. Everyone is sure to have a blast!

Jessica Streit is an educator, freelance writer and single mom of 2 boys. Her writing can be found on a variety of topics including personal finance, education and parenting. She blogs about overcoming debt and living a royal life on a budget at The Debt Princess.

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