But you can still encourage healthy activities for the whole family, indoors and out.
In Oregon this time of year, there are definitely some days you’ll want to stay indoors. Ice, especially, can make steps and sidewalks perilous. Families may start to feel the stress of being cooped up when cold, rainy days limit the ability to play freely and warmly.
If the weather outside is too frightful, there are indoor activities that can get one’s heart rate going. And for fresh air, those rainy days can be enjoyed by all, with the proper gear.
Indoors
Consider allocating some of your child’s screen time to follow along with a fitness video or playing an active video game that requires full body movement. Some video consoles have fitness-based games like tennis, baseball or boxing, that combine physical activity with on-screen results. There are also several platforms that provide free, short-session videos for all fitness levels. Yoga is a great option
for all ages and can be adapted for many activity levels and goals. Try something new — it might just become a family favorite.
Group sports and activities are a fantastic way to get the wiggles out this time of year. Soccer is nearly a year-round sport in Oregon, but other sports also have fun activities for all levels of interest. School teams, city leagues and family recreation centers have loads of offerings for families. Take advantage of any information provided by the school or daycare regarding seasonal indoor activities such as roller skating or play gyms.
Outdoors
Weather, however, need not be a barrier to outside activities. With the right gear, most young children will hardly realize it’s raining. If you can accept the fact that you will likely have some muddy boots and a little laundry to do, you can happily send kids out to play.
Some ideas for getting fresh air:
Go for a family walk. Children are more likely to be excited about activities when the whole family is involved.
Give children an age-appropriate umbrella. Pint-size bumbershoots are adorable, and fun for kids to play with and twirl.
Head to a park. Make sure clothing layers are appropriately warm or waterproof, or bring a change of clothes for the trip home.
Perhaps the most important aspect of encouraging activity when kids are the least receptive to it, is to model that behavior yourself. Set an example by being active and healthy in your own choices, and it will seem second nature to others in your family.
Brought to you by: santiamhospital.org
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