Most parents struggle to motivate their kids to get moving during wintertime when it’s cold and gray outside, and all they want to do is curl up or cuddle with you in bed — or worse, reach for their iPads or watch television the whole day. But don’t fret because there are many clever ways to squeeze in some physical activity during winter. Here are some of our favorites.
Have Fun in the Snow Whenever Possible
Let your children take advantage of the unique outdoor experiences winter has to offer. But of course, keep it safe and supervised, especially for very young ones. Don’t forget to dress your little ones warmly in several layers —complete with a hat, scarf, mittens, and boots — to protect them from the cold.
Some fantastic winter outdoor activity ideas.
- Have snowball fights.
- Make a snowman.
- Let them ride a snow sled or go tobogganing.
- Go skiing or skating.
- Go snowshoeing.
- Walk around the neighborhood or the yard just to take in the change in scenery.
- Take your pet out for a walk around the block.
Gamify Household Chores To Make Them Exciting
Hit two birds with one stone by making your children interested in household chores. Aside from encouraging them to move more, it’ll also give them a sense of responsibility, boost their self-confidence, and develop a positive attitude after completing their tasks. Give them age-appropriate assignments around the house. Make cleaning with your kids fun and exciting by turning it into an interactive activity they look forward to instead of dreading. For example, challenge them to a speed cleaning contest. Whoever is the fastest to pack the most toys back in the cubbies in three minutes gets a prize, is the rotten egg, or will be tickled for eternity!
Do Online Workout Videos As A Family
As they say, “Monkeys see, monkeys do.” Kids would get a kick sweating it out in the morning when they see you’re doing it, too. Luckily, there are many free workout videos you can find online that are perfect for getting everyone to become more active. Here are some of the best examples.
- Family Fun Cardio Workout (Popsugar Fitness)
- Kids Workout for Beginners (Moe Jones)
- 25-Minute Fun Workout for Kids at Home (Fitness Blender)
- 10 MIN Exercise with Baby Shark (Pinkfong)
Be selective when looking for child-friendly exercise videos on the Internet. Make sure you only choose ones that use age-appropriate language, music, and clothing and feature kids their age to motivate them more. It doesn’t have to be an extensive and elaborate workout program. A quick one they can do regularly, at least three to four times a week, is a good start.
I was always out in the snow when I was growing up. So much fun! Kids today are missing out.