For families, everything can feel more challenging and more expensive in the winter. In summer, we can throw our shoes on and get outdoors, enjoying picnics and free days out at the park. Getting outdoors together can make bonding with foster children easier and help them feel more comfortable with you and your family. In winter, it’s easy for cabin fever and frustration to set in, and most families worry about mundane things like energy bills and drying washing. Fortunately, there are plenty of outdoor activities that you can enjoy even in the depths of winter.
The Benefits of Getting Outdoors in Winter
It can be hard to motivate yourself to get outdoors in winter, especially if you have young children, and it seems to take hours to get everyone’s coats, boots, and waterproofs on. But it’s so worthwhile. For example, getting outdoors is an opportunity to bond away from the distractions of home. It’s also a good form of exercise that reduces stress and improves your mental health. You will also be accessing vitamin D to keep everyone healthy.
Camping
While most of us head off for camping trips in the summer, with the proper preparation, camping in the winter can be magical. You’ll get to enjoy winter wildlife and nature and end your days toasting marshmallows around a campfire. Remember, if you plan to go on holiday with foster children, even in the same country, you’ll need permission. You can get more information about the fostering processes and rules from this independent fostering agency.
Hiking
Hiking can be a fantastic winter activity for foster children of all ages. Even young children will enjoy exploring nature, walking through woods, and looking for pinecones. Older kids and teenagers will enjoy the challenge of climbing peaks as long as you let them explore, take photos, climb trees and rocks, and get a little muddy. Pack waterproofs and layers, plenty of snacks and drinks, and talk to your children about safety before you set out.
Sledging
When it snows, sledging can be great fun. Dress in warm clothes and waterproofs, and find a hill in a local park covered in snow before launching yourselves down. Get stuck in, try not to worry too much about everyone getting wet and dirty, and you’ll all have a fantastic time.
Ice Skating
Outdoor ice skating can be a truly magical way to spend an afternoon, especially in the run-up to Christmas. Look for a local ice rink or a pop-up rink open over the holidays.
Enjoy a Light Walk
Some foster children might find Christmas very overwhelming, so you might want to limit your decorations, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy other people. Take your foster children for evening walks around your local area to spot the houses with the best lights and decorations. Start early, enjoying Halloween decorations and fireworks, before slowly watching the Christmas lights increase in the run-up to the festivities.
Attend Festive Activities
Speak to your foster children first to make sure they are comfortable, but if they want to attend things like carol services, light switch-ons, and other Christmas-themed outdoor activities, make the most of them while you can.
While getting outdoors in the winter certainly takes a little more planning and preparation, it can be well worth it.
*This is a collaborative post