Getting your kids away from the TV or computer can be a mission, especially when it is cold, wet and miserable outside, but it’s worth persevering. Not only will being active have benefits now, but if it becomes a part of their normal routine, they are more likely to continue it throughout their life. Here are some ideas to keep them moving.
Don’t be afraid of the weather
If your kids are usually out and about playing or riding bikes, skateboards or scooters in summer, yet hibernate inside once the temperature drops, they need to get over it. Wrap them up warmly – choose layers that they can strip off one at a time when they get hot. Pop on a hat and gloves and brave the chill. Likewise, don’t let a little bit of rain put you off. Put them in raincoats and gumboots and let them enjoy splashing around in the puddles on a walk.
Encourage them to play sports
Joining a team is one of the best ways to keep your kids active in winter. Whether it’s playing rugby, soccer, netball, basketball, hockey or any other sport, it will be good for them, not only because they’ll be running around on match day but they’ll also train during the week. Team sports are lots of fun and great for camaraderie. They may be more likely to stick with a team sport because they don’t want to let the others down by not turning up.
Try organised exercise classes
If your budget will allow and in classes such as martial arts, gymnastics or dancing. They’ll be more inspired to go if their friends also attend, so ask their mates’ parents about the activities their kids do.
Get into the swimming pool
Just because it is cold out, don’t forget about swimming. Your local indoor pool will be nice and warm, and splashing around in the heated water will do your kids the world of good. It will also help to improve confidence of children who are still getting to grips with swimming and, hopefully, you’ll notice a marked improvement in their swimming ability once summer comes around again.
Head for your local indoor playground
These are great for small kids and not too exorbitantly expensive. Encourage them to run around, climb and jump as much as possible. Older children may enjoy going to more sophisticated indoor activity venues, such as climbing centres or ice skating rinks.
Set up your own home playroom
If you have the space, find someplace indoors where they can burn off a bit of energy using a hula hoop, skipping rope or just jumping about. A garage is ideal but you may also be able to use a wide hallway or even a living space (put away anything that can be easily broken). Encourage them by challenging them to do things like as many star jumps as possible in a certain amount of time and write down the results so you can see improvements in their fitness over time. Make it as much fun as possible and join in yourself.
Choose video games that get them moving
In some cases, interactive video games might be your best option for getting your kids moving when it is freezing or pouring down outside. They still get to spend time in front of their beloved TV screen, but if you choose a game involving physical activity that gets them panting it’s really good for them.
Dance till you drop
If your children enjoy dancing it won’t be hard to get them up and moving to good music. Many kids get a kick (and a good laugh) out of seeing their parents dancing to songs that were around when they were young, and joining in with them. Disco moves can be a big hit, or you can venture further back and try rock ‘n’ roll or the Twist. It’s good for you, too.
