Running for kids: How to get kids interested in running 

Looking for a healthy new hobby for the children in your life? Or for ways you and your family can start making a difference for others? Running may be the perfect solution. We’ve pulled together some tips for building an interest in running, as well as a list of St. Jude running events for the whole family.

Read Our Tips

 
St. Jude Memphis Marathon Runners
 
 

Why you might want to explore running as a hobby with your kids 

Running can be a hobby for the whole family. It's a chance to exercise, become part of a community of other runners and even support some of your favorite causes through fitness fundraisers. 

 
 

Tips for getting kids interested in running 

 
 

1

 

Start small 

Kids (and sometimes adults) can become overwhelmed and frustrated by new or large tasks. Start small and slow when introducing a child to running. Bringing it up over a family dinner can be a great way to start — mention that you'd like to try running with them and then let them tell you how they feel. Discussing any excitement or nervousness ahead of time can leave you both better prepared to explore running together. 

Another idea is to watch videos of races or movies about running with a child to help build excitement and interest.

 
 

2

 

Make running fun 

Kids love to have fun, so think about what you learned from discussing running together to make this enjoyable for both of you.

Some ideas:

  • Create a running playlist with your child's favorite songs.
  • Incorporate games or lighthearted challenges to keep things interesting.
  • Explore your surroundings by planning running routes in new places.
  • Celebrate achievements and wins — no matter how big or small.
 
 

3

 

Offer choices

To keep running fun, it should be something a child has a choice in. Being able to make their own choices helps children build self-esteem and confidence, and gives them a sense of control and leadership. Consider letting your child choose where they want to run or what types of challenges you can work on together. 

 
 

4

 

Look for group running activities with other children 

Running can be more fun with friends. Check to see if your area has a local kids' running group or team. If not, consider organizing one yourself to help your child make friends and create running opportunities for other kids.

 
 

5

 

Show kids how to set appropriate goals 

Teaching children how to set goals is a skill that will come in handy throughout their lives, with benefits far beyond their running career. Think about their current running ability and focus on an age-appropriate and achievable goal that will help them progress.

You can also introduce the concepts of measuring progress and celebrating success, but keep things playful and lighthearted. Remember, this should be fun!

 
 

6

 

Run with your family

If running is something you’d like the whole family to get involved in, regularly set aside time to run as a group. Tying running to family time can help build a strong family bond and is a great way to make lasting memories. 

 
 
A father and son stand at a finish line wearing St. Jude Hero shirts.
 

Be a St. Jude Hero, and make an impact for St. Jude kids

Being a St. Jude Hero means joining thousands of other runners who commit to raising funds for the kids of St. Jude — kids with cancer and other life-threatening diseases — while training for their race.

St. Jude Heroes participate in some of the world’s greatest running events, including the St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend.

Learn More About Being a Hero

 
 

You might also be interested in ...

Close
Close