Spring into Action!
Submitted by Diane Gallagher, Be Fit for Life
With spring fast approaching, it invites kids and adults to play outside and soak up all the beautiful sunshine and discover what the outdoors has to offer. Spring brings sunshine, warmer weather, new growth, and days are longer which means more time outside for children to play. Outdoor play for kids is essential in promoting healthy brain function, social well- being, and physical function. This post will cover some activities that can be done as a family or in groups. Here are four fun activities to do outside this spring!
Go on a specific flower hunt! Pick a flower that is prominent in your area such as a shooting star flower and go for a walk and see who can collect the most flowers! Or try to find all the colours if the rainbow with flowers.
Plant a garden with flowers or vegetables! Get your hands dirty and plant your favourite plants, flowers, and/or vegetables. My favourites are carrots and sunflowers!
Play a game of puddle jumping. See who can make the biggest splash or try and find the deepest puddle. It is a messy activity, but it will make everyone have a get laugh and loads of fun!
Play a game of Bunny Tag!
Pick one child to be the dog chasing the other kids, who are the bunnies.
The bunnies hop away from the fast-walking dog.
If they are caught, they crouch down and use their arms to make bunny ears atop their head until the game is finished.
The last bunny caught becomes the dog during the next round.
Play is flexible, inclusive, and fun. Play also allows for independence in choosing games, structuring games, and learning new things. With springtime approaching, playing outside has numerous benefits such as increasing levels of vitamin D, boosts energy, and getting to observe nature at its best. It’s also a great way to get the whole family involved in play and create lasting memories. How are you going to play this spring?
