You made it through the shortest days of Winter. Now that the days are longer, take time to add more physical activity to your family’s day. Balancing the work and school day can be hectic but making small changes this spring can lead to big rewards. Think about times when your family is sitting and decide to get moving.
Ideas to get you started:
- Old School Hopscotch– Help your children draw hopscotch or four square courts on the sidewalk. Sidewalk chalk is a colorful and inexpensive way for children to create their own activity space.
- Nature Scavenger Hunt– Pick up small nets and mason jars for kids to use to catch butterflies or interesting insects and collect flowers in the neighborhood or at a local park.
- Tag Instead of TV– Tag provides fun and physical activity. Children love it—especially if they can chase their parents—and it increases everyone’s heart rate at the same time.
- Neighborhood Softball or Soccer Game– Pitch in by planning healthy snacks and drinks to keep everyone energized during games.
*Adapted from We Can! (Ways to Enhance Children’s Activity & Nutrition) website wecan.nhlbi.nih.gov