Beating the winter slump
With the winter school holidays kicking off today, the Proactivity team is sharing simple, creative strategies to help keep children active, social and burning off energy; rain, hail, or shine!
If you’re already bracing yourself for the inevitable “winter slump”, you’re not alone.
When the weather turns cold and wet, it’s easy for kids to gravitate towards screens while physical activity levels drop.
But keeping children moving through the colder months doesn’t have to be a battle against the elements. As leaders in kids’ health and movement, we’ve pulled together some fun and practical ideas to help families stay active, connected, and make the most of the holidays.
1. MASTER THE “INDOOR-OUTDOOR PIVOT”
You don’t need a perfectly sunny day to get out of the house. When local parks are too soggy, look for sheltered community spaces.
- The Playground Pivot: Head to indoor community spaces like Bunnings or shopping centre playgrounds. They offer a dry, safe environment for kids to climb and explore
- Rug Up and Go: If it’s cold but not pouring, don’t cancel outdoor plans. Layer up, put on gumboots, and embrace a brisk walk or a quick scooter session.
2. LEVERAGE FREE ONLINE RESOURCES: On days when leaving the house is truly off the cards, bring the movement indoors via the screen, but make it active!
- PE with Joe: These YouTube tutorials are fantastic, high-energy workouts designed for both kids and adults to do together in the living room.
- Playmeo: We highly recommend Playmeo, an incredible free online resource packed with fun, active game ideas that you can easily set up at home with minimal equipment.
https://www.youtube.com/@playmeo-group-games/videos
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rz0go1pTda8
3. ENHANCED THE ENERGY WITH PLAYDATES: Movement is always more fun with friends. Organise a playdate to bring together a small group of classmates or friends. Whether it’s a backyard scavenger hunt or a living room dance-off, kids naturally move more when they have peers to run around with.
Or when in doubt… family dance party!
Move the valuables, have everyone pick a song, cue it, and GO! Bonus points if the kids tap out before the parents. Success!
Tip: If you can consistently have a 20-minute dance party every time it rains and the kids can’t go outside, the habit will teach them: rain = dance party = fun. It’ll reduce the anxiety surrounding the weather.
Don’t let the winter weather trap your family on the couch.
A mix of clever local hacks, active online games, and structured days with a leading Vacation Care provider will keep your kids healthy, active and happy all holidays long!