Active in August
Physical activity is important for young children. Engaging in regular activity supports healthy growth and development. It enhances motor skills, coordination, and balance. Active play promotes cognitive development, memory, and problem-solving skills. Participating in physical activity also encourages social interaction and emotional well-being, fostering skills like cooperation, sharing, and resilience. By engaging in a variety of physical activities, children learn to build a positive relationship with movement, which will support them throughout their life.
Incorporating physical activity into a child’s daily routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are ten ideas to keep little ones active during the sunny days of August:
- Nature Scavenger Hunt: Plan a scavenger hunt in a local park or garden, encouraging children to explore and collect various natural items like leaves, rocks, and flowers.
- Obstacle Course: Set up a simple obstacle course in your backyard or living room using items like cushions, hula hoops, or branches and logs to navigate around.
- Water Play: On hot days, let children splash around with sprinklers, water balloons, or a small kiddie pool to stay cool while being active.
- Dance Party: Create a playlist of upbeat music and have a dance-off in the living room, letting children express themselves through movement.
- Nature Walk: Take a family walk in a nearby nature reserve or trail, encouraging children to walk, run, or hop along the path. Stop to read a book together.
- Bike Riding: Take a family bike ride around the neighbourhood or in a safe, designated bike path area to enjoy the outdoors.
- Chalk Games: Use sidewalk chalk to draw hopscotch or other games, allowing children to jump, skip, and play on the pavement.
- Playground Visit: Visit a local playground where children can climb, slide, and swing, offering a fun and social way to engage in physical activity.
- Yoga for Kids: Introduce simple yoga poses tailored for children to improve flexibility and relaxation while having fun together.
- Garden Exploration: Encourage children to help in the garden, whether it’s planting, watering, or pulling weeds, to connect with nature and stay active.
