I know how tempting it is to stay inside snuggled up as this time of year.
I know because we spent half of November and December last year in the house for one reason or another – the weather was awful, the nights were dark, one or more of us was ill for weeks on end and really because we couldn’t be bothered. That time of year seems to make us all want to stay indoors where it’s warm.
Lately we’re really trying though and we’re trying to get back into the habit of spending at least 20 minutes outside every day – no matter the weather! I’d be lying if I said I always loved it and never once thought I’d rather be inside but the kids definitely do enjoy it so it’s worth making the effort.
So, what can you do outside in this weather:
The first thing you can do is super easy – wrap up well and walk to the shop or to a friends house or even just walk the dog if you have one. We walked to the shop the other day and bought ice lollies to eat on the way back!
Go for a bike ride together – you don’t need to go far but a nice little bike ride will blow the cobwebs away and keep you fit at the same time.
Go to the park – our park is usually deserted in the Winter apart from the die hard dog owners so it’s a great time to go. We usually take the kids scooters and they zoom about all over the place while I stroll somewhere behind with the dog.
Our trampoline really comes into it’s own at this time of year as it’s never too cold to bounce apparently. We’re waiting for the snow so they can bounce in the snow again like they did last year!
Don’t use the rain as an excuse to stay indoors – put on your wellies and go splash in the biggest puddle you can find. It’s fun for all ages believe me.
Go find somewhere new to explore – the woods, a new park, a national trust or English heritage property (sometimes it’s free to look around the gardens) and have fun discovering new things.
And when you’re done exploring, stop and have a hot chocolate or an ice cream before you go home.
Try something new – we have a town near us with an outdoor ice skating rink through the Winter and although Master Frugal hated every minute of it, his sister loved it and didn’t want to come home. We’ve also tried cross country skiing without snow which was fun but tiring.
So there’s lots of ways you can get outside and have fun at this time of year – most are just free, simple, no planning needed activities and we’re taking advantage of them all until the sun comes back out to play!
