Manipulative Skills Use soft balls, sticks, beanbags, cones, or other objects to make playing even more interesting. These games improve hand-eye coordination and strengthen muscles.
Which Way? As you roll a ball toward your child, call out directions on how to kick it -- softly, hard, far away, toward you, toward a friend.
Stick with Me When walking on sand, dirt, or snow, trail a stick after you as you turn, double back, and move in a zigzag pattern. Ask your child to follow your trail. Then give him the stick and let him lead.
Carnival Fun Ask your preschooler to help you draw a funny face on a large cardboard box, then cut out big circles to toss beanbags through. Or label holes with the letters of her name and see whether she can throw bags through in the right order.
Stability Skills Get your kids climbing, reaching, and twisting; they'll strengthen their muscles and increase flexibility.
A to Z Fitness Alphabetize some moves -- for example, "B is for bend; way down, touch the tip of your toes!" or "G is for grab; see if you can grab this big flag!" Sing "The Alphabet Song," and ask your child to chime in with his own suggestions.
Set the Pace Have your child show you how slowly a turtle moves and how fast a bunny runs. Then explain that you'll call out "Bunny!" or "Turtle!" and see whether she can move accordingly, quickly changing her tempo when you switch animals.
Wheelbarrow Obstacles Set up a simple obstacle course on a soft surface. Hold your child by the ankles and let him slowly walk on his hands, navigating the challenges.
Mom-to-Mom Tips Genius! See what other low-tech, high-fun ways parents have found to keep their family energized.
We make snow villages, using sand buckets, construction vehicles, and other common summer toys. -- Mia Zimmerman Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
We turn on the karaoke player in our basement, and everyone starts singing and dancing. -- Joseph Saitta Yardville, New Jersey
On weekends, my daughter and I walk to a park for ice-skating. Then we enjoy hot cocoa afterwards. -- Tina Lesch St. Paul, Minnesota
After dinner, our family walks around the neighborhood. If it's too cold outside, we walk through the mall. -- Jillian Sasso Lombard, Illinois Back [1] [2]
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