7 Ways to Keep Kids Active During a Winter Pandemic

We’ve heard all about the at-home exercises adults are investing in. Virtual yoga sessions, buying Pelotons, you name it. But what about kids? Our recent chats with coaches found one of their biggest concerns is how their athletes will progress with the lack of play time this year. And according to the CDC, it’s important for all kids ages 6 to 17 to move their bodies for at least 60 minutes a day.

So what can be done? Especially when the year is about to get chillier and more difficult to make use of parks? Here are some recommendations.

Jump Rope

A simple, affordable solution is buying a jump rope. And if you need to incentivize the idea with your youth, consider turning to all the jump rope trends on TikTok, which have garnered over 570 million views.

Bundle Up For a Hike

Pending where you live, it might be too chilly to hike. Though most places can be tackled with the right gear to keep you warm. According to Ginny Yurich, founder of 1000 Hours Outside, meeting up with another family can help incentivize kids to go hiking. Of course, just wear masks and keep your distance.

Walk By The Lights

The best part of this time of year? All the holiday lights! My sister-in-law got her daughter out for a stroll by taking her for a long walk down their street in the evening. She ooo-ed and aah-ed at the light set up at every house, counting every Santa Clause she saw along the way.

Snow Activities!

There’s nothing like the first snow of winter, and this year, it might be a saving grace for movement. Whether you have your kids build a snowball, engage in a snowball fight, or go sledding, there’s endless snow activities to help get kids moving and excited to do so for an extended period of time.

Use that Imagination

Kids have the most impressive imaginations of us all. Whether incorporating a door basketball hoop or making it up with whatever you have around the house, challenge your kids to come up with their own games. Build your own bowling lane, use a broom as a hockey stick, or blow up balloons for volleyball - the options are endless.

Dance Party!

Whether through Dance, Dance, Revolution or just fun YouTube how-to videos, there are many ways to shake off the stress of the pandemic and get kids moving.

Hula Hoop Competition

Hula Hoops cost minimally, and you can give kids a safe space to use them indoors. Have them put their friends on Zoom on a table, and dual off for who can keep going longest!