How kids can stay active this Christmas
It’s reached that time of year again. The festive holiday period is upon us, the kids are beginning to wind down at school and our thoughts are turning to spending ‘quality time’ with family. But just because it’s the holidays, cold outside and the days are shorter, doesn’t mean you have to get lazy or stay indoors! Whilst snuggling up on your couch and watching Christmas movies may be all you want to do, there is always time in the day to get active.
There are lots of outdoor (and indoor) activities you can do to keep your children moving this Christmas and ensure they get their minimum-recommended 60 minutes of daily activity, and what’s more – you can get the whole family involved too!
Go for a walk
When the air is crisp and the sun is shining, there’s nothing quite like a stroll in the park or a woodland trail at Christmas. Put on some appropriate footwear and wrap up. Increasing your step count every day over the holidays will help make you feel less lethargic, give your brain a positive, mental boost and, as a bonus, it will also compensate for that extra bowl of Christmas pudding!
Go ice-skating
There are lots of locations for ice-skating that cater for children and families of all ages and abilities. Some also offer lessons for the less confident or newbie skater and many rinks have a dedicated children’s area or assistive equipment. You can also enquire about family group bookings or off-peak sessions for discounted tickets.
Visit your local Christmas market
Why not visit your local Christmas market or have a festive day-out; not only could you indulge in a spot of Christmas shopping, but there are often lots of attractions and activities for children, to keep them entertained, including arts & crafts, fun-fair games, Christmas rides and possibly even a chance to meet Santa in his grotto!
Santa fun-run
Fun runs are a great way to be active together as a family. Organised across the whole of the country, there are hundreds of events taking place over the Christmas period. What’s more, to make it even more festive, everyone gets to dress up as Santa! Research ‘Santa fun-run’ to find out where your nearest event is taking place and for details of how to sign up. You’ll also be supporting your local community and, typically, a great charitable cause.
Christmas games
First, ensure you have enough space in your home to play safely. Next, set up fun indoor games that get your children moving around. Some great examples include Christmas-themed charades, Santa says (a Christmas take on Simon says), an indoor candy cane hunt, dress-up Twister and Christmas musical chairs.
Get dancing!
Put on some Christmas party music and get dancing! Dancing whilst decorating the tree, baking Christmas treats, cleaning the house or doing laundry is also a fun way to get the kids to help out with chores, whilst staying active.
Build a snowman
If you’re fortunate enough to have a white Christmas, what better excuse to go outside than building a snowman or making snow-angels? Just make sure to wrap up warm, wear waterproof clothing and change into warm, dry clothes afterwards; and don’t forget a carrot for the snowman’s nose!
Blow some bubbles & chase them outside
If temperatures reach freezing or below outside, blowing bubbles can become a whole new experience. Watch them as they freeze mid-air, then commence the chase! Just be careful in cold, icy conditions; wear warm clothing and appropriate footwear.
How will you be staying active with the kids this Christmas? Let us know by sharing your photos or videos on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and tag us @LearnHappie!