Holidays, the very word means freedom and fun to kids. Of course, there is always the load of school projects and homework, but the delicious lack of institutional discipline automatically adds a spring to your kid’s steps. While this may have meant the world to previous generations, due to the lack of endless entertainment guaranteeing constant outdoor playing and activities, things have changed now. Kids are happier planning video game marathons in summer these days than going out for an actual game. Particularly after the COVID pandemic, a sedentary lifestyle has become the norm for many, leading to a spike in lifestyle diseases like obesity and diabetes in children. The only way to combat this situation is by ensuring your kids stay physically and mentally active. But how do you motivate your child to stay active during holidays? Here is a quick guide with tips.
Since space can be an issue for many urban inhabitants, here are some tips to keep your kids mentally and physically engaged throughout their summer and winter holidays in homes of all shapes and sizes.
If your kids are lucky enough to live in a house with a decently sized backyard, then they are in for a treat. Try treasure hunts in the garden or take them gardening with you to get their daily dose of physical activity. You can even organize races and picnics and make a whole day out of it for children. It will not only keep them engaged all day but ensure they sleep soundly at night to wake up fresh and ready for more.
If you live in urban apartments and suffer from space crunch, then make the most of common stairs and terraces. From doing basic exercises like jumping jacks, step-ups, and stair hopping to doing animal races and running circuits, you can try them all. Do not pressure them into trying. Always offer, or else take them along. They will be more interested in trying it if they see you doing it and having fun. This is the best way to make proper use of the space you have in urban cities for healthy and eager kids.
Children may often not like being physically active alone. After all, how long can you run and chase one person or play alone? It is ideal for increasing your kid’s social circle for this reason by arranging play dates, inviting their friends over for a fun day, and filling it up with fun competitions and physically active races and games. Include healthy treats, snacks, and drinks while preparing small gifts for winners. This kind of friendly competition will ensure your kid engages in physical activity regularly during the holidays.
Obstacle races are a great way to keep your kids physically active and increase their endurance and fitness. Regardless of space constraints, you can set up courses using flowerpots, benches, ropes, and miscellaneous items as hurdles for them to jump or climb over. So, whether you have a small terrace or a huge backyard, obstacle races are the way to keep kids engaged in physical activity and fruitful fun throughout school vacations.
If the weather is suitable, say summer or winter, let your kid play outdoors. In summer, the weather is hot, and the daytime is long, which is beneficial for kids’ play. The weather is pleasant in winter, and kids can play long hours without taking a break. Take them on nature trails, hikes, trips, and outdoor picnics to make the most of it. Spending all that time in nature is bound to heal and enrich your kid both mentally and physically.
Since playing outdoors is not always an option, especially on rainy days, try playing active indoor games. Involve the family as well for a spirited game of Twister, dance challenges, or guessing the movie from its silent mimicry performed by kids. This will keep their energy levels high while their mood and mind remain in top gear.
Since staying active is not restricted to physical workouts only, engage your kid's mind during the holidays. Play family card games, strategy or business games, detective games like Cluedo, or classic board games like chess or Ludo. While such games may seem casual, they engage your kid’s minds far more than any game, even digitized versions of them.
It is not hard to motivate your kid to try physical activities occasionally, but it can be hard to maintain the routine every day. Start by planning possible fun activities for one week or a few days at a time. Once the routine is set and your kid is comfortable with it, vacation activity time will be much easier for all.