Creative ways to get your kids active

It’s important that children are active for at least 60 minutes every day for their health and development. This doesn’t have to mean traditional sports; keeping active includes a broad and exciting world of movement. There are plenty of fun and unexpected ways to encourage your children to get moving, even without them realising what they’re doing is exercise.

We’ve created a list of suggestions to inspire you and your child to get moving.

Wide games

Get your child and their friends together and organise some wide games. Capture the flag, sardines, and even stuck in the mud are active games that can be adapted for children of all ages and abilities. As they’re so versatile they can be played in a variety of settings, from fields to beaches. Once your children have learned these games, they can even play them on the playground.

Read our blog to get other ideas for fun outdoor games.

Watersports

Why not make the most of good weather by heading out onto the water on a paddleboard or in a kayak? The excitement of beginning a new adventure and trying something new will get your child engaged with the activity without realising they’re exercising. You’ll also get to explore new areas and experience waterside wildlife up close, offering a brand-new perspective of Hampshire’s countryside. Visit River Hamble Country Park to give watersports a go.

Cycling

Research shows that cycling improves children’s wellbeing, connection to nature, and their independence. So, if you’re trying to think of ways for them to keep active, getting out their bike is a good option. While long bike rides through the countryside can be incredibly fulfilling, there are ways to incorporate cycling into your child’s daily activity. Even cycling to and from school is a good way to get some fresh air. It’ll also help to reduce your family’s carbon footprint!

If you want to enjoy a longer route, why not check out one of our cycling trails?

Obstacle courses and play areas

Obstacle courses are a fantastic way to transform your garden into a playground , while providing real benefits to your child’s development. Obstacle courses develop their gross motor skills and physical coordination. Get your child involved in creating the obstacle course to help develop their teamwork skills and encourage their imagination. You can also visit a play area to enjoy equipment that can’t be created at home, like swings and roundabouts. For older children, assault courses, like the one at Queen Elizabeth Country Park, are a fantastic option.

Orienteering

Encourage your child to explore the outdoors and teach them map skills by introducing them to orienteering. Following an orienteering course, like the one at Lepe Country Park, is a simple way of teaching your kids to trust their instincts in a safe and guided way. It also gets them walking and climbing while they’re exploring the countryside. So, pick up an orienteering map, and let your child lead the way.

What are your favourite ways to get active? Let us know on Facebook and Instagram. You can also get more ideas about fun things to do in Hampshire’s countryside by signing up to our newsletter.