Ways to keep the whole family active with Gary Wallace
As spring blossoms and Easter approaches, it’s the perfect time to shake off the winter blues and get the whole family moving.
With longer days and warmer weather on the horizon, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures and active pursuits to enjoy together. Whether you’re looking to explore nature, burn off some energy, or bask in the joy of the season, there are so many benefits that the whole family can enjoy.
Exposure to sunlight
Even on those cloudy days, getting outside early in the morning can have tremendous benefits to your mood and how well you and the family sleep at night! It’s all down to our circadian rhythm, our natural internal 24-hour clock, mainly guided by the sun rising and setting. The sooner you can expose yourself and the whole family to sunlight, you kick-start your natural clock and as a result can have a better night’s sleep as the body winds down from its natural process.
Less screen time
Getting active as a family can take everyone away from their screens, and that’s no bad thing. We tell our kids to get off their screens but we as adults are just as bad! When going on your out adventure it is great to capture the memories but also be mindful to give your children the attention they deserve and not checking how many likes your post got.
Deeper connections
What we are doing is giving the family the opportunities to make memories, a simple walk can turn into the greatest adventure for a child, or an unexpected memorable moment. They’ll want to remember when they climbed their first tree or that time Daddy got stuck going doing a child’s slide. It can also be a great opportunity to have more meaningful conversations or a quiet opportunity to express your love for your child and family.
Being physically active
Getting the steps up, playing chase, kicking a ball around the park. Whatever you do as a family, you are improving everyone’s physical activity levels for that day. That is always a good thing.
Building traditions
Those walks after Sunday lunch or a kick-about in the back garden can be passed from generation to generation. By starting or carrying on these traditions, you are passing on positive experiences to your future grandchildren and beyond.
Let’s look at a few suggestions to keep us active this spring.
Egg-cellent Easter Egg Hunt:
Springtime also means Easter. What better way to celebrate Easter than with a classic egg hunt? Cook some hard-boiled eggs and paint them as a family activity. Hide them in your garden or local park. Set boundaries and let the kids loose to hunt for their treasures. Incorporate challenges or clues that lead to each egg to make it more active. This not only adds excitement but also encourages teamwork and problem-solving.
Spring Nature Walk:
Enjoy the blooming flowers and budding trees with a refreshing spring nature walk. Choose a scenic trail or explore your garden. Encourage the kids to spot signs of spring – from chirping birds to blossoming flowers. Make it interactive by turning it into a scavenger hunt for specific plants or wildlife.
Picnic in the Park:
Pack a basket of delicious treats and head to your favourite outdoor spot for a family picnic. Let the kids help prepare sandwiches, fruit kebabs, and other picnic snacks. After feasting, engage in some fun outdoor games like football, or try one of our family games from our Youtube Channel. Remember to bring a blanket for lounging and cloud-watching afterwards.
Spring Cleaning Olympics:
Turn spring cleaning into a fun and competitive family activity. Assign different tasks to each family member and set a timer. See who can tidy up their designated area the fastest or collect the most items for donation. Crank up some upbeat music and make it a dance party while you clean – a sure-fire way to keep everyone moving and motivated.
Gardening Galore:
Get your hands dirty and embrace the joys of gardening together. Whether you have a spacious backyard or just a few pots on a balcony, there’s something magical about watching seeds sprout and flowers bloom. Let each family member choose their favourite plants to cultivate. Gardening provides physical activity and teaches valuable lessons about patience, responsibility, and the wonders of nature.
Bike Riding Adventure:
Dust off your bikes and hit the trails for a family biking adventure. Explore scenic routes, parks, or even cruise around your neighbourhood. Encourage friendly competition with races or challenges along the way. Remember: helmets and safety gear, and enjoy the thrill of the wind in your hair as you pedal through the springtime scenery.
DIY Outdoor Art:
Unleash your creativity with some outdoor art projects. Set up a makeshift studio in your backyard with easels, paints, and canvases. Let the kids express themselves through painting, drawing, or crafting with natural materials like leaves and flowers. This hands-on activity encourages artistic expression and the wonders of nature.
Family Sports Day:
Organise a mini sports day in your garden or local park. Plan various games and activities such as sack races, three-legged races, and tug-of-war. Divide into teams and keep track of points for extra motivation. Remember: the goal is not just to win but to have fun and enjoy each other’s company.
The key to this is to make it fun, be present with your kids and make as many memories as possible.
