Kids are staying at home with an extended spring break due to the pandemic of COVID-19 and this can absolutely cause children to go stir-crazy. To avoid that from happening, it is important to keep them busy and moving. Indoor boredom busters, science experiments and sensory activities are all ways to keep children’s minds away from the fact that they have to stay home during this time of social distancing.

Headstands and jumping rope are both perfect exercises for their core muscles and really get the blood circulating and kids are often naturals. Another wonderful and creative idea is an at home obstacle course. Parents and kids an create a furniture course in your house or apartment. You can add in specific mental or physical challenges to keep them guessing. If you have the space or in your own backyard, races are always energizing and a complete workout too. Wheel barrow, crab, bearwalk and animal races will definitely keep the whole family entertained and keep the laughter alive as well.

Other ideas are balloon ball, follow the leader, dance party and scavenger hunts. There are endless ways to play with balloons indoors. Try to keep it off the ground or just play catch. A dance party or freeze dance is fun for the entire family. A scavenger hunt is rewarding for the kids because they can race to find a clue for a small prize at the end of the game.

The Ponca City RecPlex is offering Virtual Fitness Programs and after speaking with Stacey Hobbs, Aquatic, Fitness and Special Events Coordinator for the RecPlex, she advised me that they just began workouts and exercises for parents and kids via Facebook Live. They are offering live morning workouts, afternoon workouts for the kids and even offering prizes and giveaways of RecPlex gear for those who comment on their Facebook Live workout posts. They are currently closed through Tuesday, March 31 and for any questions concerning their virtual classes please call them at (580)767-0430 on Monday through Friday between 8-5 p.m.

“We are staying positive and expanding ways to keep Ponca City active and fit, even from home. We are just going to be creative and come up with ideas for at-home exercises, this will be a great addition to the RecPlex and for our community!” said Stacey Hobbs.