How to Tackle the Winter Lockdown for Children

Make it fun, make it interesting and keep it healthy

Yet again we are plunged into the realms of another national lockdown. Back in March we would never have believed that we would still be struggling to overcome this virus almost a year down the line. During the spring we had some fabulously warm and sunny weather to make the lockdown period manageable. But, we are now in the depths of winter, which can make everything seem harder. So what can we do about it?

While we must abide by the rules, there are a plenty of ideas to keep children stimulated, healthy and happy. Below are just a few of the best ideas that caught our attention:

Spending time outdoors improves mental and physical wellbeing

By now, we all know the importance of keeping a healthy mind and body. Getting outside is one of the best ways we can improve our mental health and physical wellbeing. Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean this has to stop. Make sure everyone wraps up warm and enjoys getting out and about.

Simply taking the children to the local park or beach will liven spirits and enthusiasm. Any walk can be turned into a learning experience without being labelled as such. In this way children will enjoy creative thinking and play naturally. Some ideas include: build a den in the woods, create a sand model, even collect plastic and rubbish from your local beauty spots. Providing children with experiences like this is just as valuable as organised structured education. And it’s a triple whammy; not only are they gaining from outdoor learning, they are also outdoors burning off energy and breathing in fresh air.  They may also be quieter when they return home!

Enjoy a different view of nature and science

When it is just too wet or cold to venture out, why not encourage watching nature from the window. At the end of January, the RSPB have their annual Big Garden Birdwatch, it’s great fun spotting and naming the birds which enter the garden or your balcony. Homemade bird feeders can easily be made from a number of household items. These will encourage the birds to come into your outside space and the children will gain from caring for nature, identifying birds and counting them!

For inspiration see the HappyHooligans website! It’s full of art and craft ideas for youngsters at home! We love the lego bird table! Can you do better?!

Another great YouTube channel for science at home is Let’s Go Live! A live family science show hosted by Maddie Moate and Greg Foot. This runs 3 days a week, Monday Wednesdays and Fridays and has themed makes and experiments which can easily be carried out at home. It all looks to be great fun!

Take advantage of Lockdown Learning on the BBC

If you or the children do need help with a school-based approach to learning during lockdown then, as you have probably seen, the BBC have introduced Lockdown Learning. This is an innovative way to access a whole tranche of education links via a wide range of platforms, including TV, iPlayer and online.

Physical fun!

Lastly, Joe Wicks is back again 3 days a week with his exercise regime primarily aimed at children. This can be a great family activity where you can all enjoy 20 minutes of exercise, fun and laughter together. Again, a learning experience with both physical and emotional benefits.  See YouTube The Body Coach TV at 9am on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

This lockdown is with us for a few weeks yet so keep mind and bodies moving for a better healthier future. The best advice, which is coming from many headteachers at the moment, is don’t stress about home learning. Time spent with the whole family outdoors is a great basis for informal learning.

Make it fun, make it interesting and keep it healthy!