Physical activity is vital for children's health, wellbeing and development.

As cooler weather approaches here in the Northwest, it can be helpful to look for ways to support your child's energy with both indoor and outdoor activities. We encourage families to make it a goal to get outside everyday, as even small chunks of fresh air can do wonders! Having the right clothing and layers can make outdoor time enjoyable rain or shine.

Play & Learn at Home

Here are a few ideas to support your child's physical activity through the cooler months:

- Create and indoor obstacle course. 

- Try a Book-Worm Workout! Pick a book that has a word that’s often repeated. For example, choose the word “hat” if you’re reading The Cat in the Hat. Every time the word comes up in the story, ask your child to do a jumping jack. 
 
- Play freeze dance. The rules are simple: dance when the music plays and when the designated DJ stops the music, everyone freezes.
 
- Turn a hallway into a “laser” maze with yarn. Zig-zag yarn from varying heights and challenge your kids to get across without touching the laser.
 
- Take your family to the Wilbert Trail at South Whidbey State Park.  It is a short trail full of old growth trees (and even an “Ancient Cedar” tree!), bridges to cross, ferns and little forest creatures. It can feel long for some toddlers, so bringing a carrier might be a good plan B.
 
- North Whidbey has a wealth of trail systems.  Families can find popular walks at Deception Pass, Windjammer Park and Ebey’s Landing.

Looking for more inspiration at home? We love these resources:

This is Play: Environments and Interactions that Engage Infants and Toddlers
https://aussiechildcarenetwork.com.au/articles/teaching-children/using-open-ended-
questions-with-children
https://www.amazon.com/This-Play-Environments-Interactions-Toddlers/dp/1938113535

Embrace the Possibilities: Materials Matter Open-Ended Materials and Loose Parts
http://www.eceprc.ca/uploads/8/1/5/9/8159697/june_2012_pro.pdf