The official beginning of spring is next week! It’s time to get outdoors, try something new and enjoy the sunshine. What’s in store for your family this spring?
Spring Tips for Kids
Instead of letting everyone spend all day indoors on their screens, try these healthy spring tips for kids so your family can make the most of the season.
- Make time each day to get outside. In the winter, we get into the habit of staying indoors and bundling up inside of blankets where it’s cozy. Now is the time to break that habit. Instead, make it a point to get outside as much as possible.
- Invest in some new outdoor activities. Kids keep busy with activities like bubbles, chalk, scooters and jump rope. Older kids may like spike ball, cornhole, football or basketball.
- Plant a vegetable garden! Spring is the perfect time to start planting. A full garden can be intimidating, so start small if you’re new to gardening. Do some research on your favorite vegetables and herbs and go from there. Even putting a few vegetables in pots or a few seeds in the ground is a fun activity. Gardening can also turn into a summer activity as your seeds and plants grow. What a great lesson in nutrition!
- Spring clean. No one wants to, but it pays off in the end! Spring is a great time to clean out your garages, closets, shelves and other nooks and crannies. Donating items that you no longer need is also a great way to give back while decluttering your home.
- Try a new sport. The warmer weather makes it easier to do outdoor activities. Try signing your kids up for soccer or baseball or give them an opportunity to try something new. You never know what their passions will grow into.
- Take family hikes. Find a new trail or a nature path and get some steps in. It won’t even feel like exercise when you spend time looking at all the nature and scenery!
- Add in spring produce. New vegetables and fruits are in season now that the winter frost is melting. Try oranges, mandarins and limes to pack some vitamin C into your diet. Make a salad with arugula, frisée and watercress. You never know if you like certain fruits and veggies until you try them!
- Take some day trips. With the cold weather (mostly) out of the way, plan a trip to the zoo or a museum. What about a day at the beach or a national park? Leaving the house for the day offers bonding and learning opportunities.
- Find new parks and playgrounds. Don’t get stuck in a rut; adventure out for a new place you haven’t been before. New parks can keep kids occupied for hours!
- Look at summer camps. Summer camp generally take place in the spring and summer months. Ask your kids what activities interest them and consider signing up. Art camp, horse camp, sports camp and cooking camp can all be fun ways to try new things.
- Shop at a farmer’s market. Visit a local farmer’s market for fresh produce, fresh flowers and baked goods to support your local community and add a fun activity to your day.
- Look for festivals. There is a lot going on in the spring and summer. Online community calendars like Facebook and bulletin boards have a list of upcoming events.
- Shop for snacks. As your kids get out and active, their appetites will increase. Take a trip to the grocery store for healthy snacks to have on hand: fresh fruit, popcorn, cheese sticks, whole grain crackers, hummus, trail mix, etc.
Above all, enjoy the beautiful spring season and have fun!
