January 2005

Keep Kids Active in Winter

Children need to be active every day. It keeps them healthy and helps them grow. A good child care program will have large indoor and outdoor play areas. If children are dressed in warm clothing and waterproof boots, they can play outside in winter, unless the weather is really bad. There are also many types of active indoor play.

Parents, does your caregiver plan different ways for your child to be active each day? Check the daily schedule. Take time to visit when you can.

Here are some ways to keep kids active and busy.

OUTSIDE:

Take walks. This is fun for children of all ages.
Make snow people, snow structures, and snow angels.
Play games such as Follow the Leader and Tag.
Go sledding or sliding on a small slope. Flat pieces of cardboard work well for this activity.
Throw snowballs at a target such as a tree, laundry basket, or box. This is a safe way to organize snowball throwing.

INSIDE:

Play games such as Duck, Duck, Goose and other circle games.
Dance to music.
Have a parade with pretend instruments.
Act out a story.
Do jumping and hopping activities.
Sing action songs.
Play beanbag toss games.
Do simple exercises.

The Pennsylvania State University Cooperative Extension Better Kid Care Program has information on children's issues for early childhood educators, child care providers, and parents on the Better Kid Care Web site at: www.betterkidcare.psu.edu

Hand Washing Helps - Keeps Germs Out!

The colder weather has arrived and with it more colds, coughs, and flu. Children in child care are exposed to more germs. Frequent hand washing by children and adults can help keep children from getting sick. Parents, make sure this is happening at your child's child care and at home.

WASH HANDS:

Before handling and serving food.
Before and after eating.
After wiping noses or mouths.
Before and after diapering routines.
Before and after bathroom routines.
After handline pets.
After playing outdoors.

Help wage the war on germs! Share this article with your child care provider.

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Nancy Wilson, Better Kid Care Program Assistant
Penn State Better Kid Care Program
253 Easterly Parkway
State College, PA 16801
e-mail: naw6@psu.edu
Phone: 814-863-5880
Fax: 814-865-7893