With colder weather upon us, (I know the weather has been so amazing but cold is a thing here remember guys!) keeping our families active and healthy can feel like a challenge. It always seems like we spend more time prepping to be outside in the cold, than we actually spend out there. Here are some creative ways to stay active indoors and simple tips to make outdoor activities enjoyable for the whole family.
Indoor Adventures to Keep Kids Moving and Boost Immune Health
Indoor playgrounds are perfect for energetic kids needing space to climb, jump, and run! These play areas provide a safe, warm environment where children can engage in active play and interact with other kids, making it a win for both movement and social connection.
We have heard amazing things about Good Times in Eagan!
Try an Indoor Sport Together
Winter is the perfect time to try something new indoors. Consider signing up for a hobby you and your child can do, like jiu-jitsu 😜 or a family-friendly yoga class. Not only are these great workouts, but they also help kids develop strength, discipline, and body awareness. Bonus: it’s a chance to bond while learning new skills together!
A visit to a salt room offers immune-boosting benefits, with an atmosphere designed to support respiratory health. Kids love playing in the finely ground salt, which feels like sand, while they breathe in salt-infused air that can help clear sinuses and improve respiratory function. It’s a relaxing experience for parents too—picture a spa day that’s fun for everyone! My son loves digging for the hidden dinosaurs at Awaken for Wellness!
Home Obstacle Courses
Get creative by setting up an obstacle course in your living room! Use pillows, hula hoops, and other household items to create a course that your kids can run through, jump over, and crawl under. It’s a fantastic way to stay active at home and can easily be adjusted to different skill levels.
Tips for Embracing the Outdoors with Littles
Layer for Comfort
When it’s time to brave the cold, layering is key. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a cozy middle layer, and finish with a waterproof outer layer to keep kids comfortable. Add a fun scarf or hat to make layering more exciting!
Short but Fun Outdoor Adventures
Even a 20-30 minute outing can lift everyone’s spirits. For littles, try a quick backyard scavenger hunt where they can look for pinecones, different colored leaves, or tiny footprints in the snow. Short, intentional outdoor activities let kids connect with nature without getting too cold.
Snowy Art and Winter Picnics
For a fun and creative outdoor activity, bring food coloring mixed with water in spray bottles to "paint" the snow! Little ones love making colorful designs in their winter wonderland. Or, pack a thermos with hot chocolate and a few favorite snacks for a winter picnic—this turns a simple outing into a special event and keeps everyone hydrated and cozy.
Winter Hikes and Nature Walks
Bundle up and head to a local park for a short hike or nature walk. Many parks have kid-friendly trails and fun winter activities, like spotting animal tracks in the snow. A quick nature walk is a great way for kids to get fresh air, exercise, and observe the seasonal changes.
Warm Up with a Cozy Drink
After any outdoor adventure, warm up with a family-friendly drink like herbal tea or apple cider. Not only does this encourage hydration, but it also gives everyone something to look forward to after their winter outing.
Staying Active and Healthy All Season Long
Winter might limit some outdoor options, but there are endless ways to keep the family active, healthy, and having fun. Whether you’re spending the day at an indoor playground, taking up a new sport, or enjoying short bursts of outdoor fun, staying active in winter doesn’t have to be difficult. With these ideas, you can create memorable moments and support everyone’s well-being—inside and out.
Here’s to a Cozy, Active, and Healthy Winter!
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