Just because it’s raining (with more predicted during winter), doesn’t mean that your kids need to be parked on the couch all day! There are loads of activities, games and outings that will boost physical activity as well as combat the complaints about ‘being bored’ (which will be especially good during the upcoming school holidays)!
Consider these fun ideas to keep minds and bodies more active.
- Get Game:
If equipment or other resources are in short supply, play hide and seek or charades! If you’re willing to make a small investment, purchase a few fun games like Twister (or a Wii Fit for a larger outlay).
- Search for Hidden Treasure:
With a little advance preparation, clues can be hidden around the house, sending kids on a wild goose chase looking for more clues…. and ultimately, the ‘treasure’. Clue difficulty can be adapted depending on age.
- Build the Imagination:
Bring out the couch cushions, blankets, cardboard boxes, and whatever else you can find, and let the kids build a cubby house, obstacle course, or whatever else their imagination can summon.
- Teach an Old Dog New Tricks:
It’s never too late to train a dog, and there are loads of instructional videos on YouTube. This will keep the kids as well as the dog busy and challenged, and it will also enhance their bond.
- Get Crafty:
Pounding clay or painting big murals works the muscles as well as the mind! If you’ve got a large
enough space (eg: garage floor), spread out large sheets of paper and try a whole range of different
techniques including spattering, blowing or even hands and feet!
- Modify Outdoor Games:
Play games (eg: basketball/netball etc) with a soft foam or sponge ball, or just tightly scrunch up some newspaper. The goal can be any basket (or bin), and shots can be taken from different angles around the room.
- Get Outdoors Anyway:
Suit the kids up in their boots, raincoats, and warm socks and get them outside! Let’s face it… kids love jumping in puddles, so let them give you their best impression of a duck, a frog or a fish! Best thing is… when they come back inside & get all cleaned up, everyone can snuggle in together under a blanket on the couch, with a cuppa soup or hot chocolate and a great DVD.
Ahhh, winter bliss…. Enjoy!
This article is general in nature. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice and you should seek professional verification on matters such as legal, health and wellness, travel or financial opinion prior to relying on such information.
