How to Keep Your Kids Physically Active in Winter

Winter time is the hardest time to stay active for many and yet its also one of the most important times to stay active to keep the winter blues away!

The cold temperatures, shorter days, and often bad weather can create significant barriers to outdoor activities that many people typically enjoy during the warmer months. As the sun sets earlier and the chill in the air becomes more pronounced, the motivation to stay active can wane, leading to a more sedentary lifestyle. However, it is crucial to continue to prioritize staying active during this time more than most. Engaging in regular physical activity during the winter months can be a powerful antidote to the winter blues. Exercise releases endorphins, often referred to as 'feel-good' hormones, which can significantly improve mood and alleviate feelings of depression or sadness. Moreover, maintaining a consistent workout routine can help regulate sleep patterns, boost energy levels, and enhance overall well-being. Did you know that going outside for even 15 minutes around noon each day can help naturally regulate melatonin levels for nighttime sleep?

So what can your kids do? Maybe even you can join in too and strengthen your bond with your kids!

1. Go sledding (great source of aerobic activity)

2. Build a snowman and snow angels

3. Go ice skating

4. Take a hike in the snow

5. Skiing or even snow tubing

6. Winter scavenger hunt

7. Have a Snowball fight

8. Build a snow fort

9. If it snows, have the kids shovel some snow with you and make it a contest

Maybe its too cold outside...

1. Have a dance party and then have some hot cocoa after

2. Have a Mario Kart competition but have everyone stand up (standing is proven to lengthen your lifespan)

3. Go swimming at your local indoor pool

4. Create an indoor obstacle course

5. Go to the local trampoline park

6. Check out local open gyms

7. Do a family work-out and follow a you-tube video for instruction

8. Play some Twister

Let your imagination run wild and have some fun with your kids this winter! We only have so many at home with them so make those memories and keep them physically and mentally healthy!