The BODY SMART Blog

Just because it is cold outside doesn’t mean that we need to keep children inside all winter. Dress in layers, wear gloves and hats and keep moving to help you beat cabin fever this year! Check out Active Kids Club for great tips on dressing for the cold.

Remember, the fresh air will do them (and you!) good.

Winter Play Ideas

Snow or No Snow…

• Build a fort with sticks and logs. Use and old sheet or tarp to help block some of the wind and keep warm.

• Go on a wildlife watching hike. Look for squirrels, chipmunks or even the family dog. Check for tracks in the snow, mud or sandy areas. What can you find?!

• With all the leaves off the trees it’s MUCH easier to spot our feathered friends, so why not take a bird walk?! Encourage children to look high and low. Can they spot any nests now that the leaves are off the trees? To vary the activity, change the ways you move on the walk: walk on tiptoes, hop or move your arms and fly like a bird! For a fun activity at home or your center, make bagel bird feeders to hang outside. (Substitute almond butter if you have peanut allergies.) The birds will thank you all winter!

Snow…

• Is there snow on the ground? Go sledding, make snow angels or play Snowball Hockey. Make a snow ball and use sticks or wrapping paper tubes as your hockey sticks.

• Make footprint trails for children to follow – and let them make a trail for you! Try moving in different ways through the snow – galloping, taking giant steps and making zig-zag and other patterns.

• Capture your snow day memories with this fun idea for a “headless” snowman. Post your pictures to our Online Community!

How do you like to play outdoors when it’s cold? Tell us in the comments section below.

Playfully yours, Bethe

Bethe Almeras, MS, is the HSBS Education & Outreach Director. A long time educator and play advocate, she is passionate about outdoor play and connecting children with nature. In her free time Bethe writes a blog, The Grass Stain Guru, and can often be found playing outside and enjoying Mother Nature. She is particularly fond of  chatting with squirrels.

Top  photo credit: tanya_little.