by Kerry Taylor
While I was waiting in line the other day I overheard two parents expressing their frustrations with some of the changes schools have made with reopening. Whichever school their child attends, there will not be any before-school play time or recess. I understand the frustration, but another way to look at it would be as an opportunity. You’re probably saying, “An opportunity for?” An opportunity to play with, or interact more with, your child(ren) in a different way than maybe you are used to, and be able to get creative while you’re at it. I’m sure, in total, kids’ activity level has decreased. It’s always a good idea to find ways to help get that energy out. Here are some ideas for you to possibly start adding in to your child’s daily routine. Adding these will keep them moving and bring their activity levels back up to where they were or where they should be.
Yoga on YouTube
My daughter, Adrionna, and I had a great time doing Moana Yoga. This Youtube channel has nothing but all types of themed yoga sessions to help keep kids engaged and wanting to do it. There was also a Trolls theme, Sonic the Hedgehog theme, and I’m looking forward to trying the the Star Wars themed one myself. LOL Don’t judge me LOL.
Video Games
Yes, video games…hear me out. It’s already hard to pry kids away from video games and their screens. What if you just go with it but use it to your advantage? Just change the type of game it is. i know that may be a fight too, but it’s worth a shot. Use more interactive games like, Just Dance. I’ve found myself being pulled into playing this game many times, and I’m not that good at it. LOL But it is fun and different, and you can get lost in it listening to some of your favorite music and dancing along like you’re in the video.
Family Adventures
Plan to go on a hike, take a bike ride and have a picnic in the middle of your journey, and maybe do a short stretching session before you head back. If those don’t work for you, you can always do a workout together. You just have to have a friendlier version for the kids to do while you are exercising so they can participate. What’s better than working out with mommy, daddy, auntie, uncle, sister and/or brother? Nothing!!! If you’re a 212er, you can always have them join in with you virtually.
Games
Play more games that are interactive and active. Get rid of the board games for a bit, so they are exercising and it’s hidden in the guise of playing a game. Games like Twister, Hop Scotch, 4 square, Hide and Seek and, our recent favorite, the floor is lava. My daughter’s love for this game has grown even more after she has forced me to watch every single episode of the TV show. LOL Every pillow and piece of furniture has been climbed or jumped on to play this one. LOL
For those that are in similar situations as these parents, I hope one of these options sparked an idea or two for you to keep yourself and the kids moving. For some, this may also be a way for you to get activity into your life and not just the kids. Have fun!!! Until next time, continue to live life 1 degree above the rest!