The holidays are here! While we all look forward to the magic of the season and spending valuable time with loved ones, it’s important for children to remain physically active. Creating time, energy, and motivation to partake in physical activities can definitely be a challenge at this time of year. Below are a few ways we can help children overcome any holiday season obstacles and be active throughout the season:
- Outdoor Activities
One of the best things brought about by the holidays are the cooling temperatures that create that fall and winter feel! Spending time outdoors, going on walks, playing with friends, riding bikes, or any other outdoor activity can be a fantastic way for children to remain physically active while enjoying themselves. If you’re lucky enough to experience snow in your area, introduce kids to winter sports like skiing, skating or snowshoeing. Children can enjoy making snowmen, snow forts, snow angels or snow mazes on snowy days .Just be sure to dress warm and appropriately!
- Holiday Community Events
Local communities typically organize family friendly holiday events and gatherings that can be a great way for children to spend time being physically and socially active over the course of the season! Check Eventbrite, Facebook and other online sources for community events in your area.
- Too cold outside? Indoor presents just as much fun!
Deck the halls! Fun holiday indoor activities such as decorating the house or building gingerbread houses can be a great way to engage children if outdoors is not an option. Take the kids to see the Nutcracker! The classic Christmas ballet is an excellent opportunity to get kids interested in the arts at a young age. Search a local ballet company or ticket platform to see upcoming performances. Don’t live where it snows? Checkout nearby cities or towns that have an indoor ice skating rink.
- Tis’ the Season!
Teach children the true meaning of the holidays. The holidays are an excellent time to clear out the clutter of toys that no longer capture your children’s attention. They’ll be making room for new ones and helping kids in need at the same time — a wonderful feeling all around! You can also take kids to drop off food at your local food bank. Use the vacation boredom to teach your kids the importance of helping others. Take them to drop off some food at your local food bank or homeless shelter so they can bring joy to other people.
These activities can not only serve as physical activity for children, but help them get the holiday season experience at its absolute best!