It happens every year in Scotland; as summer transitions into autumn, the temperatures drop, the increased rainfall can chase you indoors, and the lovely long days of sunshine are gone for another year. For foster carers who understand just how important it is to keep kids physically active, the colder months can prove to be challenging. A lack of outdoor time can leave you wondering how you’ll keep your foster child active and busy.
With that in mind, here’s a look at four ways you can stay active with your foster child during the colder, wetter months. There’s no reason for the weather to hold you back.
Hallway Football - the Perfect Cold Weather Solution
Do you have a long hallway in your home? If so, you've got what's needed for a game of hallway football. Simply set up a net at each end of the hallway, and you can kick the ball back and forth. If you don’t have a net, just mark the goal line with something such as painter’s tape.
Throw a Weekly Dance Party for a Fun Way to Work Out
Here’s a workout that doesn’t feel like exercise at all and is a great way to encourage kids to move about. Throwing a weekly dance party at home means everybody is up and moving, enjoying their favorite tunes and sharing some laughs. There are no rules when it comes to dancing; everyone should simply be encouraged to have a great time.
To add a fun twist to the weekly dance party, you can rotate who will act as the “resident DJ” each week. This way, everyone gets a chance to select their favorite music.
Clear Some Space and Get Hula Hooping
Hula hooping is not only a fun challenge, but it is an excellent workout. Kids will love how fun and engaging it is, and they won't even realize they are busy working out their core. Once they start to master hula hooping, you can add in challenges such as walking frontwards or backward while hooping, spinning the hula hoop on their arm or leg, and spinning multiple hula hoops at once.
Don't Be Afraid to Bundle Up and Head Outdoors
The final tip is to just go ahead and embrace the weather. Rather than fight what is, bundle up in the cold weather gear and head outdoors. Even if you only stay out for a short time, the outdoor air will be wonderful for the children. The fact is, as long as you’re dressed appropriately and you’re moving around, the weather shouldn’t be an issue. The fresh air is also a fabulous way to tire the children out, so you can expect them to sleep well that night.
Some of the autumn and winter outdoor activities you can do include hiking or walking, wildlife viewing, biking, winter festivals and events, and skiing and snowboarding in The Highlands. Your fostering Scotland agency may also be hosting a few events and activities worth checking out.
Cold and wet weather doesn’t have to slow you down or dampen your spirits because there are plenty of fun ways to stay active with your foster child.
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