It looks like we can finally stop asking this question: “Is it Spring yet?”
With spring-like temperatures across the state (low 50s in Anchorage, low 20s in Utqiaqvik, and 50s in Juneau), it’s time to think about getting kids outside for warmer weather activities.
Did you know the new “Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans” says children ages 3 through 5 should be active throughout the day to enhance growth and development? Adults caring for children this age should encourage active play (light, moderate, or vigorous intensity) and aim for at least three hours per day. Children can run, skip, hop, jump, climb, and dance in almost any space – your yard, a park, a playground, out on the tundra, etc.
Toddlers love to practice new physical skills like running, jumping, and climbing. Backyard equipment might include balls of different sizes, hulahoops, streamers or scarves to run or dance with, or beanbags and a home-made target, for example. Some playgrounds provide toddler-sized equipment and spaces to help keep children safe. If that’s not available, you may have to participate in climbing on structures and going down the slide with your little one, adding to the fun!
Read this article from One Tough Job for more activity fun.
Here in Alaska, the state Department of Health & Social Services sponsors the Play Every Day initiative to encourage health and wellness for children. Check out their website here for more good ideas and activities.
