Ellie and Max’s Fun and Healthy Day

Ellie and Max were best friends. Ellie loved playing outside, climbing trees, and riding her bike. Max liked watching cartoons and playing video games and he spent a lot of time just sitting on the couch.

One sunny Saturday, Ellie knocked on Max’s door. “Max, let’s play outside!” she said.

Max yawned. “I’m watching my favorite show,” he said. “Maybe later.”

Ellie frowned. “You said that yesterday! Don’t you want to run around and have fun?”

Max shrugged. “I like watching TV. What’s wrong with that?”

Ellie said, “My teacher says sitting too much isn’t good for us. Moving around helps keep us strong!”

“But I like playing video games,” Max said.

“Games are fine,” Ellie said. “But if you sit too long, it can make you tired and grumpy. Moving helps you be happy!”

Max thought for a moment. “Okay, what can we do instead?”

“Let’s make today fun!” Ellie said with a big smile.

First, they played tag in Max’s backyard. Max laughed as he ran. “This is more fun than sitting!”

Then, they rode their bikes around the block. “My legs feel strong!” Max said.

After lunch, Max wanted to watch cartoons. Ellie nodded. “That’s okay, but just for a little bit. After each show, we can stand up and stretch!”

Between episodes, they did silly stretches. They waved their arms, hopped like kangaroos, and pretended to be trees blowing in the wind.

By the end of the day, Max felt great. “I didn’t know moving could be so much fun!” he said.

Ellie smiled. “Sitting all day makes us miss out on playing and feeling good. Moving even helps us sleep better!”

Max nodded. “I get it now! I can still watch shows and play games, but I’ll make time to move too.”

Ellie and Max promised themselves they would:

• Take breaks: Stand up and stretch after sitting for a while.

• Play every day: Run, jump, or play tag outside!

• Balance screen time: Watch TV, but don’t forget to move.

• Have fun outside: Climb, explore, and play with friends!

That night, Max thanked Ellie. “Today was awesome. I’m going to move more and sit less!”

Ellie grinned. “Great! Staying active is the key to feeling good and having fun!”

From then on, Max made sure he took time to play, move, and explore. You can too! What fun activity will you try today?