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
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