Summer Indoor Activities
It's finally consistently warm outside and what do you know, there’s Canadian wildwire polluting the air causing sensitive groups (which include kids) to stay inside. My kids have been inside for the past few days as an added precaution. We typically equate summer time with outdoor play, and the weather is perfect for playing outside, but what do you do when it's too hot to go outside or in this situation unhealthy air? Here are some high-movement activities for kids to do inside:
1. Inflate a bounce house in your home. There are smaller bounce houses that are affordable and can fit in your home. During the pandemic, I inflated a bounce house in our basement regularly. This is a great way for kids to burn off some energy and have fun at the same time. Just make sure to supervise them closely, as they can easily get hurt if they fall or run into something.
2. Do brain breaks on YouTube. There are many fun and educational brain break videos available on YouTube. There are character themed activities that encourage kids to do a specific exercise that corresponds to the answer to the question presented. These are a great way to keep kids active and engaged, even when they're stuck inside. Just search “brain breaks” on YouTube for a variety of options.
3.Play Mario Party. This classic video game is a great way for kids to get some exercise while they're having fun. There are many different mini-games to choose from, so kids can find ones that they enjoy. The mini games incorporate motions in order to play the games such as raising your arm to roll the dice or standing to march to the beat of a drum.
4. Have a dance party. Turn up the music and let loose! Dancing is a great way for kids to get some exercise and have fun at the same time. For all those still trying to nail the Tamia line dance, (me included) kill 2 birds with one stone. Keep the kids and yourself moving until you get it. At this point, if you haven't gotten the dance down, I'm sure you will at least attempt it 5 times before you get it down. That's a vigorous 15 minute workout. If you need a playlist to get started try my June Music Playlist.
5. Do yoga. Yoga is a great way for kids to stretch and get some exercise. There are many different yoga poses that kids can do, so you can find ones that are appropriate for their age and ability level. There are yoga classes on YouTube that tell a story while that correspond with certain movements, just search “kids yoga”.
6. Play Simon Says. Here’s the twist to this classic game. Simon says insert a particular exercise like jumping jacks, push-ups, hop on one leg, etc. Choose easy workouts that can be done in small spaces. Stay clear of furniture and fine china (I'm sure no body with littles have many breakables in their house) however I must note so no one comes back complaining about kids accidentally kicking the tv out. This is a great game for kids of all ages. It's a fun way to get them moving and thinking at the same time. Who knows, your tiny humans listening skills may improve while they maintain their physical health.
7. Play charades. This is another great game for kids and parents of all ages. It's a cheap impromptu game that you can play. Before you start, get some paper and a pen. Write down many nouns, verbs, places that you know your kids can read and understand the word on the piece of paper. Cut the words out in rectangles and fold in half and place in a jar to select when it's your turn to act. It's a fun way to get them moving and using their imaginations.
8. Play board games. I'm thinking Twister or Operations which will get the kids moving. These board games are a great way for kids to get some exercise and have fun at the same time. There are many different board games to choose from, so you can find ones that are appropriate for their age and interests. A small cornhole set can be placed in the basement or put in a corner of a room away from delicate housewares.
These are just a few ideas for high-movement activities that kids can do inside when it's too hot outside. Get creative and find activities that your kids will enjoy. The most important thing is to keep them active and having fun!
What are your favorite indoor activities for kids? Comment Below⬇️⬇️⬇️