Kids need lots of outdoor time to play, explore and be active. Due to colder weather and limited daylight, getting enough outdoor time can be tricky to routinely accommodate during the winter. We've had a very mild winter so far, despite a brief cold snap. This has limited some family snow fun opportunities. A lot of Kidspace families enjoy getting away for skiing and snowboarding, saucers and sledding. The close-in slopes and sno parks haven't had much good snow so far, but families can still enjoy simple outdoor activities like winter walks and bike rides through the local environs and parks, or along one of Seattle's many shorelines on the Sound or lakes. Our outdoor spaces boast spectacular views and there are so many cool places nearby to explore. You'd be surprised at how much fun a simple rainy day walk can be. There is so much to discover and enjoy when you look at it through the eyes of your child.
If your local park or neighborhood walk is getting boring, take a minute to brainstorm some of your favorite Seattle places or nearby areas you've been meaning to get to. Stick it up on the fridge and let it inspire you to get out and enjoy your spectacular city with the kids. There are wonderful areas like Greenlake, Gasworks and Discovery Parks, Ballard Locks and Arboretum, the Burke Gilman Trail, or the Olympic Sculpture Park, Alki Beach and Constellation Park, Volunteer and Cal Anderson Parks, Montlake and the Arboretum, Lake Washington Blvd, Carkeek, Richmond Beach, Matthews Beach, even a walk or bike ride through UW's campus is fun. Here at Kidspace the children play outdoors, rain or shine (or darkness, even!), twice each day. We pay attention to dressing appropriately, and we limit time and keep active when the thermometer plummets or the wind chill goes up.
- Dress kids warmly with several thin layers, and don't forget a water resistant outer layer and hats and mittens and warm boots if you head out for the snow or take a rainy day walk
- Dress infants and toddlers in one more layer than adults would wear for the temperature, and make sure their heads, hands and feet stay plenty warm
- Your child will be easier to keep track of outdoors when they wear something bright and colorful
- Chapped faces happen in winter, so liberal applications of lip balm and a product like Vaseline or Aquaphore are important for children with sensitive skin
- Protective eye-wear for sun is important in the snow, and sunscreen is a good idea too; consider having your child wear a helmet when skiing or tubing
Share with us your favorite spots around town or in the region to go to for winter outdoor fun.
What gear has worked well for your family members?
What tips do you have for keeping active with your kids through the winter months?
Please click "comments" below to share your ideas on beating "cabin fever" outdoors with the kids. Thanks!
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