Embrace the Winter- Local ways to stay active as a family this season!

As winter blankets our surroundings with its chilly embrace, it might be tempting to cozy up indoors and hibernate until spring. However, embracing the winter wonderland can be incredibly beneficial for children, both physically and emotionally. Engaging in physical play and family activities during the winter not only promotes a healthy lifestyle but also fosters strong family bonds.

Winter is no excuse to put physical activity on hold. In fact, the cold season provides a unique opportunity for children to engage in activities like sledding, ice skating, and building snowmen. These activities not only keep them active but also promote cardiovascular health, muscle development, and coordination.

Exposure to the crisp winter air and moderate sunlight can contribute to a robust immune system. While it’s important to dress appropriately to stay warm, spending time outdoors exposes children to fresh air and the vitamin D from sunlight, helping to ward off illnesses.

The benefit of outdoor play contributes to a lifelong active lifestyle.

What can you do embrace winter and stay active as a family?

There are many beautiful outdoor parks and walking trails in the community:

Moncton: https://www.hikingnb.ca/Trails/FundyEast/Moncton.html

Riverview: https://www.townofriverview.ca/parks-and-recreation/parks-and-trails

Dieppe: https://www.alltrails.com/canada/new-brunswick/dieppe/walking

Fredericton: https://www.hikingnb.ca/Trails/LowerSJRiver/Fredericton.html

There are also indoor walking areas, such as the Crossman Community Center (Lewisville), YMCA North (Moncton), the Moncton Coliseum (Moncton), JD Irving Walking Track (Dieppe), and the Grant Harvey Centre (Fredericton).

A fun family activity during the colder months is also ice skating, with many free outdoor skating areas:

• Ian Fowler Oval
• Centennial Park
• Lewisville Park
• Maplehurst Park
• YMCA North
• Brian Hicks Park
• Canadian Heights Park
• Many more

There are also many public skating schedules available online:

Moncton: https://www.moncton.ca/publicskating

Dieppe: https://www.dieppe.ca/en/explorer-et-samuser/patinage-public.aspx

Riverview: https://www.townofriverview.ca/sites/default/files/arena_public_skates_schedule_october_9_2023_to_march_24_2024.pdf

Fredericton: https://www.fredericton.ca/en/recreation-culture/facilities/arenas-outdoor-rinks

Be sure to also check out your local community museums on those chillier days, as museums offer opportunities to explore history, culture, and art.

Winter is not a time to hibernate but an opportunity for children to thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally. By embracing the winter wonderland through physical play and family activities, we not only ensure the well-being of our children but also create cherished moments that will be remembered for years to come. So, bundle up, step outside, and let the winter adventures begin!