Winter is here, and it's the perfect time to snuggle up in your LS, sip some warm cocoa and embrace the joys of this cozy season. But wait…there's more to winter than just indoor cuddles!
We’re all about making the most of cooler days. Staying healthy is key to enjoying wintertime, so in this blog, we're sharing a snowstorm of ideas for keeping your tiny tots bouncing with energy & the whole family feeling great.
Gather ‘round as we share our snuggly secrets to wellness during these snowy months!
Get outside for family fun
Despite the chilly weather, don't let your family hibernate indoors. Beat the winter blues with outdoor activities like sledding, ice skating or nature walks. Exposure to natural light, even during shorter days, regulates sleep patterns and improves mood. Light physical exercise helps improve cardiovascular health and muscle strength, too!
If you’re lucky enough to have some snow, building a snowman can be a fun way to spend time together. Dressing up a snowman or snow-woman as a favorite character from a children's movie or show can add an extra layer of creativity. Here are a couple of ideas:
- Create a magical Harry Potter-themed snowman by using a stick or a small broomstick as a wand, tying a scarf & adding round glasses!
- Make a superhero snowman by using a colored towel or fabric for a cape and adding a mask out of felt or colored paper!
Pack your plate with yummy nutrition
Winter brings cravings for hearty comfort foods, but it's also a great time to focus on a balanced diet. Think about making your plate a colorful canvas: with juicy fruits rich in vitamin C, hearty leafy greens, and nourishing whole grains such as quinoa. Don't forget about lean proteins like grilled chicken or baked salmon!
Little immune systems can be challenged this time of year. Luckily, these foods are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients that boost your immune system and can help improve kids sleep quality.
Keep the kiddos hydrated
Winter’s dry air can dehydrate your family. To outsmart this, make staying hydrated a fun activity for everyone! Create a 'hydration station', with colorful water bottles lined up and ready for action. Encourage your kids to pick their favorite bottle. We love getting creative and adding natural flavor infusions to the water, like slices of strawberry or orange.
Another idea? Set up friendly challenges with rewards for meeting daily water goals, or have a 'water tracker' chart where kids earn stickers for each glass they drink. This way, drinking water becomes not just a healthy habit, but a daily dose of fun!
Make great sleep a priority
Winter brings shorter days and longer nights, making it an ideal time to prioritize sleep. Ensure your family maintains a consistent sleep schedule by creating a relaxing bedtime routine.
Be sure to limit screen time before bed and create a cozy, sleep-conducive environment with cozy Little Sleepies pajamas, warm blankets, and dim lighting.
Rethink winter skincare for kids
The cold temperatures, coupled with low humidity and brisk winds, can lead to dryness, chapping, and even irritation on your little ones’ delicate skin. That’s why it’s essential to opt for gentle and hydrating products. Baby daily lotion enriched with natural ingredients like almond & sunflower oils could be a great choice, or we also often reach for a cream with colloidal oatmeal to soothe the skin. Be sure to consult with your child’s doctor for recommendations specific to them!
Dressing your little ones in the right layers is also so important. Little Sleepies custom-milled Lunaluxe™ bamboo viscose pajamas are made with the right balance of warmth and breathability. By choosing soft, skin-friendly layers, you're setting up a shield against winter's harsh touch!
Get creative with indoor kids activities
Transform dreary days with delightful indoor adventures for the kids. Spark joy, strengthen family bonds and ignite their imaginations with activities that foster a shared sense of achievement.
Why not host a themed family game night, complete with costumes & prizes? Or dive into the world of arts and crafts, creating a mini art gallery with everyone's unique masterpiece? Looking for more inspiration? Here are other indoor activities we love.
Up the seasonal self-care
Wave goodbye to the winter blues and infuse your family's schedule with a little self-care magic. Snuggle up for a cozy movie night, give them a relaxing bubble bath, or come together for a family meditation. These self-care activities are more than just enjoyable, they're perfect for recharging the emotional well-being of your loved ones.
Keep connections strong
As the winter chill sets in, it can bring feelings of isolation. Don't let the cold weather keep you from warming hearts! Reach out and connect with friends & family, near or far. Whether it's a video call, cheerful text, or ongoing group chat, virtual gatherings can brighten your days.
Sharing stories, laughter and everyday experiences cultivates a comforting sense of community, reminding us that we're never truly alone, even when the winter skies are grey!
Winter wellness is about prioritizing nutrition, outdoor activities, sleep and mental well-being so your family can thrive during the colder months. With a proactive and positive mindset, you'll create lasting memories and traditions that make winter a special season for the entire family.
What are your favorite ways to stay healthy, active and happy during the wintertime? Let us know in the comments!
