Once winter comes, many families have a difficult time staying active and getting enough fresh air.

Some good suggestions according to Kellye Carroll, child life specialist at Children’s Medical Center of Dallas and former elementary school teacher, include:

• Adopt a new winter sport. Ice skating and hockey are just a couple of examples of great activities to get the body moving. And remember, even a brisk 20-minute walk can be stimulating and is better than sitting and watching television all day.
  
• Create an indoor playground. Clear furniture in a spare bedroom or garage and make room for a modest indoor playset or climbing structure. Even 15 minutes of physical activity can provide for a much-needed release of tension and will engage motor skills, allowing for an easier flow into homework and other quieter indoor activities.
  
• Create a “race track.” For younger children, convert the garage into a mini-race track during the winter months where they are able to get out and ride their bicycles. But, don’t forget the bike helmet!
  
• Find somewhere to go. Research indoor physical activities and classes in your neighborhood. Swimming, aikido or other forms of martial arts that teach a philosophy for focusing mental and physical energy might be just the new activity your child needs.
  
• Rent a video that gets the kids moving. Many video rental stores have aerobic videotapes especially suited just for kids (Mom and Dad also can participate to make it an entire family activity).