Summer is the perfect time for children to stay active outdoors. Having a variety of engaging indoor activities in your back pocket can also be a lifesaver on days when temperatures are soaring, smoke is in the air and rain washes away outdoor plans.
Lethbridge Polytechnic’s Be Fit for Life Projects Coordinator Diane Gallagher says staying active is important for all ages, but especially for children who are out of school for the summer.
“Physical activity helps with mood regulation, sleeping and their appetite,” notes Gallagher. “It’s going to help with their focus and their ability to listen and cooperate with others. We’re all better if we’ve got a physical outlet. Plus, it’s fun. We all know kids who are having fun, as opposed to kids who are bored, is a way better scenario.”
And while playing inside might not seem as exciting as an outdoor adventure, Gallagher adds having the adult lead by example by participating in the game or activity goes a long way in motivating children to try something new.
Here are five fun indoor activities to try:
- Build a fort: Round up a stash of blankets, pillows and clothespins and let their imaginations run wild in your living room with this classic activity.
“When I was a kid, fort building was one of my favourite things to do,” says Gallagher. “My kids are way better at it than I am now, so I get the things out, get them excited and they’re off.” Round up a stash of blankets, pillows and clothespins and let their imaginations run wild in your living room with this classic activity.
2. Movement dice: Through a list of physical exercises that correspond to the numbers on a die, participants can incorporate components of fitness, including cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and flexibility.
“Kids will love creating their own activities, especially if there’s an adult involved because they’ll have fun picking things the adults have to do,” suggests Gallagher.
3. No-bake cookies: Turning your oven on is the last thing you want to do in the heat, but Gallagher recommends looking for easy no-bake recipes that you can make with your children.
4. Active charades: “This can be a nice little family activity to do that gets you up and off the couch, moving your body and having some laughs,” says Gallagher.
“We’re always trying to find ways to develop physical literacy for kids, basically the ABCs of moving,” explains Gallagher. “So even just a little charade game can provide opportunities for them to get good at things like jumping, hopping, skipping, balancing and running.”
5. Dance: Have children build a dance routine to their favourite song or find a video online to follow.
Staying active indoors doesn’t have to be a chore, and arming yourself with a variety of activities that can be adjusted for different ages or interests is the best way to keep children busy, moving and having fun this summer.
