3 Ways To Keep Your Kids Active in the Winter
When cold weather comes around, everyone wants to curl up and stay in place. It’s much easier to convince your kids to get up and moving during the spring or summer when it’s warm and there’s plenty to do outside. However, the winter season doesn’t have to mean lazy days and cabin fever. With a little creativity and discipline, you can keep everyone healthy and find new ways to stay active with your kids in the winter. When it’s time to burn some energy in the coming months, try out these ways to keep your kids active in the winter.
Limit Electronics and Screen Time
Movies, video games, and YouTube videos are great ways to bust boredom and keep kids entertained, but they shouldn’t take up too much of your children’s time. Limit screen time to only a couple of hours a day. You can also incorporate physical activity into that screen time. If your kids are playing games, make sure they pause once in a while to stretch, walk around, or do a few reps of jumping jacks or push-ups. While watching TV, use commercial breaks as an opportunity for quick, five-minute exercises.
Enjoy the Weather
Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you have to stay cooped up indoors. One of the best ways to stay active with your kids in the winter is to get out and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. Working, playing, or even just going on walks are all great ways to burn off some energy and fight off cabin fever. Make sure you mark off all the classic winter activities, like snowball fights, soaring down sledding hills, or making snowmen or snow angels. Dress everyone up in kids’ thermals, warm outer layers, socks, and waterproof boots and gloves so that everyone can stay warm and enjoy some time in the great outdoors.
Get Creative Inside the House
Of course, there are going to be days where no one wants to brave the cold. That’s okay! There are plenty of ways to keep your kids active in the winter without leaving the house. Clear some space in the living room or a bedroom to make room for a family dance party. You can also break out games like Twister to have fun while staying active. Look for age-specific ways to stay active with your kids in the winter. For younger kids, games like Simon Says or Red Light/Green Light are great activities that don’t require extra equipment. Older kids might enjoy fun online exercise classes, such as a virtual yoga session. No matter what you do, make sure you take the time to do it with your kids. When you’re active around the house, your children will want to do the same.
