FUN AND PHYSICAL INDOOR ACTIVITIES KEEP KIDS ACTIVE AT THE LITTLE GYM
A recent study found that , on average , children ’ s activity levels decline from 65.3 minutes a day in spring and summer months to 47.8 minutes a day in winter and fall months . According to Amy Martin of The Little Gym of Pittsburgh-South Hills , these findings highlight the importance of parents and caregivers encouraging a healthy , active lifestyle for their children as days grow shorter and opportunities for outdoor play seem limited .
“ Our bodies react to colder weather by conserving energy to keep warm ,” says Martin . “ It ’ s tempting for children to become less active , snack more and sink into sedentary pursuits like watching TV or playing video games . Ironically , this lack of activity can make children feel lethargic and less inclined to get up and move . Beyond setting guidelines for TV and electronic gadget use , parents need to be proactive about finding opportunities for their children to stay active throughout the winter .”
Depending on location , the winter season can offer a variety of fun outdoor activities . However , no matter the location , shorter days and busy schedules limit the opportunity for outdoor play . Martin says that parents should get creative to keep their children moving with the following tips :
• Challenge younger children with an obstacle course created with cushions , blankets and stools . If space permits , add activity stations for jumping jacks , hula hooping and the like .
• Satisfy older children ’ s craving for screen time by focusing on interactive video games that provide a workout for more than their thumbs .
• Check out activity offerings at local parks or visit local museums and science centers .
• Visit a mall for a scavenger hunt or a game of “ I Spy .”
• Join a community swimming pool or go bowling or roller skating .
“ Kid-focused activities like The Little Gym can be another great option as they offer age-appropriate programs available after school , on weekends and even when school is not in session ,” says Martin . “ Whatever approach works best for your family , establishing good habits in children needs to be a year-round priority to lay the foundation for an active , healthy lifestyle as they grow .”
The Little Gym gives parents a year-round solution that fits easily into hectic family schedules . In addition , many locations offer Holiday and Winter Camp programs during weeks when school is not in session . Each camp day features a different , creative lesson plan – and parents can sign their kids up for a full week or just a day at a time . Gift Certificates are available at select The Little Gym locations . For more information , please contact Amy Martin at The Little Gym of Pittsburgh-South Hills , located at 3909 Washington Road , Suite 205 , by calling 724.941.0100 or emailing aim1970 @ msn . com . n
Peters Township | February / March 2017 | icmags . com 31