It is important for everybody to get some kind of regular physical activity, especially kids. During the summer, it’s easy enough to get kids to do all kinds of physical activity. However, during the winter, it becomes a real challenge. As you look for physical activities for kids during the winter, you should start by looking for things that will interest them. Many parents and kids will be inclined to stay indoors since it’s cold out, and it gets darker earlier, but too much time inside can be detrimental to your overall health. It is essential to get creative during the winter, and we have a few ways you can do just that.
Go Outdoors
While you may not be a huge fan of the cold, there are fun activities the whole family can enjoy that will not have you freezing your boots off. Just make sure that everyone is dressed warmly, with plenty of layers, scarfs, mittens, and hats. Boots are also a must, as snow and mud can make the roads and sidewalks slippery and dangerous if you are not careful. When you are outdoors, you can do some of the following:
- Walk or jog
- Make snowmen, snow angels, snow fort, etc.
- Try winter sports like skiing or skating
- Play tag at home or a nearby playground
- Go sledding
Stay Inside
If it is too cold to go outside, there are still physical activities for kids that you can do indoors. You may need to clear some space in your home, so you do not break anything and so that no one gets injured. Some creative ideas are:
- Get up and dance
- Play games like Twister that require you to move
- Try indoor hopscotch
- Try an obstacle course
- Set a challenge for climbing up the stairs if you have them
Organized Activities
Find organized activities such as a weekly class if you want to ensure that your child is getting regular exercise. This can be a sport like swimming, dance, gymnastics, tennis, or martial arts, or it could be an adventure club or something similar. Not only will this help them stay active, but it may also ignite an interest in a new sport or hobby that they may want to carry with them for a lifetime. They will have the opportunity to make new friends as well, and it also gives parents an opportunity to meet other parents too.
Community Spaces
If you want to get out of the house, but still be indoors, find a community play space in your area to visit. You can check local recreation centers for your older children as well. There are also other indoor physical activities for kids, such as going bowling or indoor roller skating. You can even try an indoor rock-climbing wall or trampoline park. Walking around the mall can be a great way to get moving. Many malls will be decorated for the holiday seasons, and it can be fun to look at while you walk.
Gaming and Working Out
Video games are popular all year long, and while you may think it is not a physical activity, it can be. Some gaming systems offer options to get you moving, such as virtual reality gaming. This may not be as beneficial as some of our other options, but it will still provide some physical activity for kids.
Call VNA Health Care Today
Your child’s pediatrician can sign sports physical forms which many schools and organizations require for your child to participate, and they will be able to talk to you about how much physical activity they recommend – usually at least 30 minutes a day for most children.
When you need high-quality, compassionate health care, visit VNA Health Care at one of our convenient locations. We have appointments available for adults and children throughout the day and during the evening and weekends too that can fit into your busy schedule. Contact us online or call us at (630) 593-7974.