Staying active — both physically and mentally — when it's cold outside is always a challenge. This year, with COVID concerns, that will especially be true. But staying active is necessary for all of us to stay healthy and happy during what is likely to be a difficult winter. It's especially important for our growing children. How can we encourage our kids — and ourselves — to keep our brains and bodies moving when it's cold outside?
Here are 10 ideas to keep active this winter:
1. Unless it is dangerously cold, get them outside!
Keep an eye on the "feels like" temperature to know if it's safe to be outside for an extended period of time. Fresh air always wins, even when it's cold out, but kids (and adults) need to be dressed appropriately and not stay outside too long if it is super cold. Snow pants, a winter coat, hat, and waterproof gloves are a must when out in the snow. If you're supervising from inside, keep an eye on the time. Even 15-20 minutes outside is better than nothing.
2. Dance party!
Put on your family's favorite tunes and bounce around! This will get your heartbeat jumping and your blood flowing. Make up a dance routine for everyone to learn. Plus it raises endorphins, which can put anyone in a good mood. If you have a game console, "Just Dance" is a great way for the whole family to get exercise while also giving your kids that video game fix. Another great option? GoNoodle.com. My kids' teachers use GoNoodle as a reward in their classrooms. This kid-safe, free site has Just Dance-like videos and Kidz Bop songs to dance and sing along to. No game console needed! Here's one to get you started:
3. Hold a scavenger hunt
Being active doesn't always have to mean working up a sweat! Set up a scavenger hunt around the house for little kids. If your kids are older, have them set up hunts for each other. They'll be running all over the house finding (or planting) clues.
4. Hide-and-seek
Make sure everyone has a chance to seek! Want a fun variation? Try hide-and-seek sardines! One person hides and the rest of the family seeks. When you find the hider, squeeze in with them into their hiding place and wait for the next person to find you both!
5. Do a puzzle or art project
Sometimes being active isn't about physical activity at all! It's just as important to keep your brain active and challenged. Work on a challenging puzzle as a family, or create artwork together. Both engage your brain and help you spend quality time together.
6. Twist it up!
Play an active board game like Twister, Fitivites, or Twangled.
7. Try charades, Simon Says, and musical chairs
These simple games are fun for all ages — and all that laughing is great for your stomach muscles!
8. Run the stairs
Challenge each other to see who can get up the stairs the fastest.
9. Clean house
I know you think I'm crazy for suggesting this, but especially young kids want to help around the house. Give them a broom while you vacuum, or a cloth to wipe the counters. They may not actually do much cleaning, but they enjoy helping you — and they're moving at the same time.
10. Find virtual workout classes for the whole family
There are so many online family workouts, mindfulness, and yoga classes you can take, and many of them are free on YouTube or other sites. Simply search what you're looking for and try a few out to find hosts you connect with!
This article originally appeared in Macaroni Kid Family Wellness.
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