Winter Sports Activities for Kids

For many children and their parents, the transition into winter can be difficult. Colder weather and harsh conditions that are staples of the winter months in many parts of the nation makes playing outdoors difficult. Despite these drawbacks, winter shouldn't mean that children and families become prisoners inside their homes. The winter season is the perfect environment for a wide variety of healthy and stimulating activities for kids.

  1. Sledding

    • Sledding is a relatively inexpensive way to enjoy the outdoors during winter. Choose a relatively small hill for young children because max speeds can result in serious injury. Sleds are often available at drug stores and supermarkets during the winter months. Choose a snow sled appropriate for the age, height and weight of your child. For very young children, simply pulling them around on a sled in the backyard can be exhilarating.

    Skating

    • Outdoor ice skating is a communal winter tradition across many American cities and towns. While outdoor rinks and parks often play host to public skating in the winter, ponds and lakes can also serve as adequate skating destinations if properly cleared for safety. Ensure that the ice is thick enough to accommodate skating, and make sure your child has the proper size skates and that they are properly laced to prevent injury.

    Snowman Building

    • Building a snowman is a favorite winter pastime of children all over the world, and fosters physical activity and creativity. While the standard three-ball construction is a favorite design, encourage kids to utilize their creativity and create sculptures from their imagination. Capturing photos of your snowman or snow sculpture can preserve the narrative of a snowy day and create lifetimes of family memories.

    Skiing & Snowboarding

    • Starting kids on the slopes at a young age can get them involved in a healthy and engaging activity they can enjoy throughout their lives. If you are not an experienced skier or rider, consider placing your child in an instructional course at a local resort that will teach them falling methods, navigation tactics and breaking strategies to ensure their safety on the mountain.

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