Outdoor winter activity

Aurora BayCare Medical Center -  

Question: I want to keep my family active and outside in the winter, what can we do with snow on the ground?

Answer: Don't let the cold weather discourage your fun outside. Grab your winter coat, gloves, hat and boots. It's time to find fun activities outside, even with the snow.

Some of the most memorable moments with your children could be playing outside with the snow banks.

Once we accumulate snow, plan a snow sculpture contest with the kids. You can play boys against girls, or set up random teams. Get creative with the sculptures; add clothes or food coloring to the masterpiece. If competition isn't in the family blood, make life-sized sculptures. Create dinosaurs, other animals or your children's favorite cartoon characters. Not only will time fly by, it could be the best time spent this winter season.

Bombs-away. Find a hill near your home and take the family sledding. Most kids love the thrill of sliding down a hill. If you have young children who are afraid of the activity, ride with them on the sled and start off on small hills. When you and your family trek up the hill, you are exercising.

Ice-skating and cross-country skiing are two another winter activities that the whole family can enjoy. Unlike the other three activities mentioned above, these activities might cost a nominal fee. If you don't have your own figure or hockey skates or skis, many venues rent the equipment. You could even sign up for ice-skating lessons in town. These activities are not only a good workout, but they help with growing children's coordination skills.

Walking and running are still great activities if the temperatures are above zero, but please dress in layers and watch for ice.

If you have any questions about how much clothing and at what age children are safe playing outside in the winter, please check with your physician.

Please consider spending time outside this winter season. Staying active is fun and is a great family bonding experience. Are you ready? Grab your camera, the kids will have a ball and you'll want to capture the moment.

Peter Vasconcellos, D.O.
Family Practice
Aurora Health Care
920-327-7300

Have a question? Send it to askadoc@aurorabaycare.com