Keep kids active in new norm

Even before the pandemic, the time children were spending taking part in PE at school was alarmingly low. Now with strict guidelines and many schools having to use their gyms/halls for classroom space, the chance of your child getting any form of physical activity could come down to weather and being able to get outside. So what can our kids do in and outside of school to ensure they are getting the daily recommended amount of exercise?

Move in the classroom with CORE NI
To be physically active you don’t need a lot of space or equipment. We at CORE NI have developed an online PE and Wellbeing Portal for schools that delivers the full National PE Curriculum programme right in the comfort of the classroom. Once the schools sign up the teachers have full access to our online videos where they simply press play and we deliver a PE session on screen that the pupils can follow. In addition, we have classroom break games and activities that they can carry out to help improve concentration and energy levels throughout the day.

Waterproof coat
As I mentioned before, we can’t really rely on the weather in this country but there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes. A waterproof coat doesn’t have to set you back a lot of money. Yes, there may be cheaper options out there that look nice but not very practical. Invest in a good coat so your child can play outside no matter the weather.

Early morning movement
Even before you send your child off to school you could have a family walk or run together. This is a fantastic way to start the day and you will be surprised how engaged your child is after the walk or run.
Get them and yourself into a healthy habit of moving first thing in the morning.
If you don’t fancy going outside why not stick on a workout on YouTube and better still, check out our channel at CORE NI for some family activities you can do together first thing in the morning.

After school clubs
Unfortunately, many schools have cancelled their afterschool programmes but there are still other options.
We at CORE NI are running afterschools clubs from 2.15-4.30pm in local communities. You can check out all our locations on our social media platforms.
Our programme is designed to keep kids active and provide them with positive experiences of physical activity and overall wellbeing through fun games and activities.
There are many other opportunities within your local area and I would encourage you to send your child to a variety of different afterschool clubs that will help improve their physical, social and emotional development.

Sports clubs
Later in the evening there will be an opportunity to send your child to a local sports club. This is a great way for them to meet up with friends and meet new ones.
All clubs will have their Covid-19 protocols in place and will do their best to look after the welfare of your child while still providing a fun learning environment. Again I would encourage you to send your child to a variety of sports club.

Family fitness
If an early morning movement session doesn’t suit your family, how about the evening times?
Try a do an activity that can involve the whole family. It may be a walk to the park, football in the back garden or family cycle. Whatever it is, try and schedule it into your week and stick to it. You may find that both you and your family get more out of it than just the benefits of being physically active.