Beat the Not-Quite-Summer-Yet Blues

As much as cool, cloudy, and rainy weather makes us want to cuddle on the couch, we can save that for bed time.  Here are some ideas for staying active when the spring sky thickens:

Shadow Dance
Put on some music and take turns leading a silly dance.  When it's your turn to lead, challenge the kids by taking it high impact or busting out some complicated moves.

Obstacle Course
Work with the kids to set up an obstacle course.  Use couch cushions, dining room chairs, blankets, boxes, and maybe toss in some pool noodles, hoola-hoops, buckets, storage totes, or bubble wrap.  Talk about how your body moves in order to climb over, duck under, fit through, etc.  For a fun math activity afterwards, draw a map of your obstacle course.



Indoor Volley-Balloon-Ball
Using yarn, rope, or tape strung between the back of two chairs as a "net," blow up a balloon and have a slow-motion game of volleyball.

More Balloon Fun
See how long you can keep a balloon from touching the ground, and then add a second and third balloon to the fun.

Play 'hot potato' with a balloon.  The winner gets to pop the balloon!



Parachute Play
Gather in a large space such as the garage, rec room, or basement and get out an old sheet.  Hold the edges of the sheet like a play parachute and lift it high in the air, low to the ground, and up high again, letting one member of the family run under before it comes down again.  Toss a bunch of balled socks into the center and make a popcorn mess!

Go Outside Anyway
Throw on an extra layer, some boots, and a rain coat and head out to get a little soggy.  There's nothing like cold noses and damp hair to make some cuddle time under blankets for a family movie night feel extra cozy.

What indoor physical activity games do your family play?