Page 3 - Healthy Kids Now - Winter 2022/2023

SNOW EXCUSES: 5 kid-friendly outdoor activities
When temperatures are low, kids’ motivation to move might also dip. After all, the couch is warm and comfy.
But children — and grown-ups, too — still need exercise, even when it’s cold outside. In fact, kids should get about 60 minutes of physical activity daily, whatever the weather.
There are plenty of ways to get active indoors, from high-intensity chores to dance-offs to online yoga classes. However, you don’t have to limit kids to the same four walls when it comes to winter fun. Snow or not — here are five ideas for age-appropriate activities to help children break a sweat this winter.
1. Go for a nature walk
When the seasons change, different plants and animals appear. With no leaves on the trees, it’s easier to see birds up high. Meanwhile, look down for tracks in the snow.
2. Follow the lights
Another way to make an outdoor trek more thrilling? Go after dark and seek out some sparkles. Near the holidays, walk around the neighborhood to see household and local store light and decoration displays. Look up anytime and gaze upon the stars.
3. Play in the snow ...
If you’re amid a drift, take advantage. Lie down and make snow angels. Or get up and build snow people, snow castles, or a snow fort.
4. ... Or step over it
When the snow piles up to about 6 inches or higher, consider snowshoeing. If your kids can walk, they can also
try this winter sport.They just need to put on boots, then slide their feet into the straps on the top. Many parks and other facilities offer snowshoes to rent.
5. Slip on some skates
Your child might not be the next Olympic hopeful. Still, gliding around on an ice rink counts as both active and fun. Check for local classes or rental programs.
No matter which cold-weather activity you choose, take a few basic steps to keep kids safe. Dress them
in thin layers. Add boots, mittens or gloves, and a hat.Take frequent breaks to warm up. And if the wind chill is below -15 degrees F, stay inside.
Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American Academy of Pediatrics, Arkansas Department of Human Services, State of South Dakota, U.S. Forest Service, Missouri Department of Conservation, South Dakota Department of Health, Middlesex County NJ
LAYING TRACKS
Want something a little outside the (ice) box? Try an animal track race.
First, set up a start and finish line using a pair of cones or trash bins. Then, challenge each family member to travel from point A to point B and back twice.
Each time, use a different type of animal track pattern. For instance, the first time, get down on all fours like a wild cat. The second, waddle like a penguin. The third, hop like a rabbit. And the fourth, bound like a deer.
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