As a dad of four, I know how tricky it can be to keep kids moving – especially over Christmas when it’s cold, dark, and there’s a lot of time indoors and treats around! But movement doesn’t have to be a chore, it can be part of the magic – bringing the family together and giving kids a mood boost.
The key is making it fun and festive, from a quick dance to a Christmas song in the kitchen, to inventing your own games at home, or doing a couple of episodes of Activate to get everyone jumping around. It all adds up and it’s not about being perfect, it’s about showing kids that movement is play – and when it’s playful, they’ll want to do it again and again.
So here are my top ideas to keep your kids moving over Christmas and find those joyful little moments as a family. See how many you can tick off together – and maybe start some new traditions of your own!
- Turn tidying up into a race: who can clear up the wrapping paper fastest or stack the toys quickest? Add a timer for extra momentum.
- Get outside for a festive scavenger hunt: Wrap up warm and see who can spot the most Christmas lights, wreaths on doors or even a sneaky elf!
- Explore local festive activities: Look out for free or low-cost Christmas trails, or community events. Lots of towns even host their own Santa Runs, which are a proper spectacle for kids. A change of scene can spark excitement and movement.
- Have a Christmas Eve pyjama disco: A pre-bedtime dance party to Christmas classics will help kids burn off that excited energy and get ready for Santa.
- Activate your Christmas morning: Start the day with an episode of my animated kids’ workout series Activate after opening stockings – it’s a great way to boost their energy and moods! Bonus points for doing it in Christmas jumpers. And keep an eye out for my special Christmas episode.
- Boxing Day boost: After the big day, get everyone outside for a walk, scoot, bike ride or even a swim. It’s a great way to reset and recharge.
- Role model it: Whether it’s a Boxing Day bike ride or a family walk, show kids how you enjoy being active and that it’s part of the fun – they’ll follow your lead.
Let’s Move! is a new campaign from the government, supported by Sport England, to help keep families active together all year round. Activate with Joe Wicks is available on iPlayer
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