The holiday season can be a busy and stressful time for families. Along with those hectic schedules, the cold winter weather can make it challenging for squeezing in some physical activity each day. However, being active as a family can benefit everyone. Adults need at least 2½ hours of physical activity a week, and children need 60 minutes a day. Follow these tips to add more activity during the winter months.
- Schedule some time for physical activity. Determine time slots throughout the week when most family members available. Devote a few of these times to doing something active.
- Turn off the screens. Instead of watching TV or playing video games, create an indoor obstacle course, make a scavenger hunt or play charades. Being active as a family not only creates special memories but helps to relieve holiday stress.
- Bundle up for outdoor play. Create a snowman or “snow familyâ€. Climb a snow mountain or make paths through the snow. No snow? Walk around your neighborhood to view lighting displays rather than taking the car.
- Don’t ditch the housework. We all have experienced the tiring effects of doing chores. But those chores are a great way to add physical activity and have a clean house – ready for holiday guests. Kids can help vacuum, dust, sweep the floor and even clean the windows!
- Treat the family with fun physical activity. Enjoyable experiences such as an afternoon of ice skating or an evening of bowling make great gifts. A membership to the YMCA or recreational club can give your family fun opportunities for physical activity all throughout the year.
For more information, contact the author – Deb Schroeder (dschroeder1@unl.edu), Extension Educator in Cuming County.
Upcoming Events
Holiday Party Workshop
When: Thursday, December 22 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Where: 4-H Building – York County Fairgrounds
Cost: $20 per person
Join us for Holiday Tea, complete with crumpets and 4-H China. Create your own holiday centerpiece made with fresh greens and florals. You will also pick up a few tips on etiquette and table setting. Sign up by calling the Extension Office at (402) 362- 5508 before December 9. If you have questions, please contact Megan Burda at megan.burda@unl.edu
Gingerbread Workshop
Decorate your own gingerbread house for the holiday season. Hosted by the Creative Clovers 4-H Club.
When: Thursday, December 22 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Where: 4-H Building – York County Fairgrounds
Cost: $5.00 supply fee per person
Families are welcome! (Youth under 10 years of age need adult help!) Please pre-register at the Extension Office by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, December 18th. Drop off cash or check payable to Creative Clovers 4-H Club. Supplies will be furnished, but participants are welcome to bring any candies or decorating supplies to share! Questions—contact Kara Rauert at 402- 362-1299.
Barn Quilts
When: Wednesday, January 4 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m..
Where: Cornerstone Building – York County Fairgrounds
Cost: $40 per person
Open to adults and youth (under the age of 12 will require adult supervision), you will learn all about the history of the Barn Quilt Movement in the United States and Nebraska, and how Barn Quilts can increase tourism and community vitality in your area as well as how to plan your design and paint your Barn Quilt!
Registration deadline is December 9, so that your wood block can be ordered, cut and primed before class. Each quilt will measure 2’ X 2’ . Pre-registration and pre-payment is required. No cancellations taken after registration date has passed.
