14/08/2024
Keep kids active this summer
With a change to their routine, and long summer days ahead of them, it's important to keep kids active this summer. Whether it’s at home, out and about or even at an activity camp like Barracudas.
Benefits of keeping kids active during the summer holidays
Physical health
Regular physical activity helps kids maintain a healthy weight, develop strong bones and muscles, and improve cardiovascular fitness. It also reduces the risk of chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
Mental health
Physical activity is not only good for the body but also for the mind. It releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones that can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Active kids often experience improved mood and better overall mental well-being.
Social interaction
Engaging in physical activities during the summer provides opportunities for them to interact with their peers and develop social skills. It fosters teamwork, communication, and cooperation, which are essential life skills.
Cognitive development
Physical activity can positively impact cognitive function and academic performance. Studies have shown that regular exercise can enhance memory, concentration, and problem-solving abilities.
Healthy habits
Encouraging kids to be active during the summer helps establish healthy habits that can last a lifetime. When children engage in regular physical activity from a young age, they are more likely to carry those habits into adulthood.
Exploration and creativity
Summer is an excellent time for kids to explore new activities and hobbies. From sports to outdoor games to artistic pursuits, children can discover and nurture their interests during the break.
Keeping active doesn’t just have to mean team sports or biking, there's loads of different activities to do with kids this summer.
Ideas to keep children active in the school holidays
- Outdoor sports and games: Encourage kids to play various outdoor sports like football, basketball, tennis, or volleyball. Organise friendly matches with their friends or family members to make it more exciting
- Water activities: Hit up the local pool and encourage swimming sessions. Water games can be great fun and provide a good workout. Barracudas offers a Swimming Skills Builder course available to add to your booking
- Nature walks and hikes: Plan family nature walks or hikes in local parks, nature reserves, or hiking trails. It's a great way to explore the outdoors, connect with nature, and get some exercise
- Biking or scooting: Bike rides or scooter rides around the neighbourhood or on designated paths can be an enjoyable way to stay active while exploring the area. There are loads of awesome skate parks these days, definitely a good place to try out new tricks
- Gardening: Involve kids in gardening activities. They can plant, water, and take care of plants, which is not only active but also educational and rewarding. Pick plants that will flourish quickly to keep them interested and engaged
- Obstacle courses: Set up obstacle courses in your back garden or local park using cones, hula hoops, ropes, and other items. Kids can challenge themselves and have a blast completing the course
- Dance and music: Organise dance parties or dance-offs where kids can move to their favourite tunes. Dancing is a great way to exercise and express themselves creatively. Kids love our Dance Fusion Skills Builder course!
- Outdoor yoga: Practice family-friendly yoga sessions in the back garden or a nearby park. Yoga helps improve flexibility, balance, and mindfulness. This is just one of the activities we have available at our summer holiday camps.
- Scavenger hunts: Create scavenger hunts with challenges and clues. This activity will keep kids on their feet and engage their problem-solving skills
- Holiday camps are the perfect opportunity for them to learn new skills and make friends
- DIY sports equipment: Involve kids in creating their sports equipment, like making a homemade football goal or a DIY Frisbee. It can add an extra layer of excitement to their activities
- Playground time: Regularly visit playgrounds where kids can climb, swing, and play on the equipment. It's an excellent way to burn off energy and have fun with other children
- Beach: is the best playground there is, miles of sand to let their imagination go wild
The key is to make physical activity enjoyable so that they stay active and look forward to these activities during the summer.
Barracudas holiday camps offer a wide range of activities, from team sports to creative sessions and motor sports to nature trails, there really is something for everyone.