Winter holidays can be a challenging time for families, especially when it comes to keeping kids off screens. With parents busy at work and the cold weather making it tempting for children to stay indoors with their devices, finding alternative activities becomes crucial. It’s essential to encourage kids to stay active without making it feel like a chore or punishment for everyone involved.
In a recent report, Australian kids were given a grade of D- for their physical activity levels, with less than a quarter meeting the recommended guidelines of 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day. Overuse of screens remains a top concern for parents regarding their children’s health. Encouraging kids to engage in physical play and outdoor activities can be beneficial in combating these challenges.
In Pieter Bruegel’s painting “Children’s Games” from 1560, more than 80 childhood games are depicted, emphasizing the importance of outdoor play. Activities like playing with balls, climbing trees, and imaginative games are timeless and can still resonate with children today. Embracing the outdoors, getting a bit messy, and exploring new places can help break the monotony of winter holidays.
Green spaces and nature play a significant role in improving children’s mental and emotional well-being. Visits to parks or local natural areas can provide a much-needed change of scenery. Additionally, borrowing toys from a local library or organizing toy swaps with friends can introduce new activities and keep things exciting for kids.
Engaging children in everyday tasks like cooking, baking, or creating art can foster creativity and strengthen family bonds. Encouraging older children to participate in physical challenges or create their own activities can spark their interest and keep them active. Turning chores into fun missions with rewards can make tasks more enjoyable and motivate kids to stay engaged.
Incorporating technology in a positive way, such as using wearable devices to track physical activity or playing sports-based video games, can make screen time more active. Setting aside screen-free days and empowering children to make decisions can show them alternative ways to have fun without relying on devices.
As the winter holidays provide an opportunity to establish new active habits, the habits formed during this time can carry over into the spring and summer breaks. By promoting outdoor play, creative activities, and physical challenges, parents can help children stay active and engaged during the winter holidays and beyond.
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