Winter is finally here! But since we have been locked in our houses since early spring of this year, it is not surprising if kids and parents experience cabin fever. Despite the coronavirus still looming around the corner, it does not mean we cannot have even a little bit of fun.
Importance of Winter Activity
A study has shown that kids only burn half as many calories during the winter season as they do during the summer. Although the calorie count of growing children is not such a big deal with most parents, being concerned about your children’s activity level is important.
Moving around and getting active is extremely crucial as these activities would help shape their adult lifestyle. Thus, getting your kids engaged in physical activities, especially during winter, is a must. Here are some wholesome, fun, and healthy activities your whole family could do this winter.
Fun and Healthy Winter Activities for the Family
Movie Night
Admittedly our lives are oversaturated with gadgets and digital technology. Nonetheless, nothing beats a wholesome family time like a family movie night. Gather your whole family on Friday nights or so to watch something on the big screen. Check out these neat movie snack ideas you could try.
Building a Snowman
If you live in an area where it snows, then building a snowman is a must-have activity for you and your kids. The fun of building a snowman never runs stale regardless of age. As your kids grow older, you can even try to be more daring and creative in decorating your snowman. Be sure, however, to observe safety.
Baking
Baking together is another wonderful bonding activity with your kids. Not only will this activity teach them how to use the oven, but it also helps sharpen their mathematics with measurements. Besides baking goodies and sweet treats, you can also make healthy muffins with recipes you can find online.
Ice Skating and Hockey
Ice skating and hockey are two great sports your family could enjoy this winter. Grab your winter gears and head to your local skating rink. However, be sure to observe proper physical distancing, wear a face mask, and sanitize your hands frequently.
Kids’ Yoga
If going outdoors is not really a thing for your kids, then you might want to consider trying indoor kids’ yoga. Not only adults can benefit from this artful exercise. Yoga is a good way to help children stay attuned with their bodies. There are plenty of Youtube yoga materials that you and your kids could follow.
Outdoor Exploration
Most children would be delighted by the idea of exploring the winter outdoors. With a camera, notepad, and coloring pencils, head out and forage nature. Encourage your kids to draw pictures of plants and animals they see and write down their observations.
Give Out Compassion Packages
There might be homeless people in your area, and all the more, they need your help and compassion during the winter months as it is colder. Encourage your kids to be more kind by enlisting their help in creating compassion packages. You can start with items like hand warmers, bottled waters, and granola bars.
Indoor Swimming
Who says swimming is only reserved for warm and sunny seasons? Even during winter, you and your whole family should consider going to your local public indoor swimming pools. If money is not an issue, why not opt for an indoor swimming pool construction? That way, you can enjoy swimming all year long.
Creating a Windowsill Herb Garden
Nurture your children’s love for nature by building with them a windowsill herb garden. The best herbs to grow this winter are thyme, rosemary, oregano, chives, and mint. Now, you and your family can have a fresh selection of herbs to add to your holiday pasta. If they grow well, you can even replant them outside in spring.
Keeping your whole family safe and healthy is evidently a top-most priority this winter season. With vaccines against the deadly virus still not widely available, it is always best to take precautions.