Exercise is Important
One of the most difficult things to do in winter is to get enough exercise. As adults, many of us have made New Year's resoultions to get more exercise, but do we think about the effect of a lack of exercise on our children? Early childhood is a period of life when children are developing rapidly. If you look at the natural behavior of children outdoors, they are often running for long periods of time, riding their bikes or just exploring their environment. Fresh air feeds the body and the brain, delivering oxygen to every part of the body, including those neurons and synapses of the brain. Sitting and watching TV should be limited (Association for Chidlren's Television suggests 30 minutes a day) because it doesn't encourage body movement or creativity. Snow provides a wonderful environment for exploration, but when it is not available, even a 30-minute walk will provide some exercise and intellectual stimulation. Talk about what you see and ask your child to look for specific items such as a cat, bird or airplane. You'll feel better and your child will, too. With more exercise outside of the classroom, your child will be better able to sit and listen to a book as well.