How to Keep Your Children Eating Well & Exercising During a Storm

Hurricane, snow storm, power outages – whatever the cause is of you and your family being stuck inside your home, we all know what the result is – lack of exercise and lots of snacking.  If you lost power over the last two weeks, chances are you spent your time bundled under blankets and lots of layers of clothing trying to stay warm.  With the lack of usual activities to keep the kids busy, like school and afterschool activities, you might have found yourself snacking more than usual.  It’s not uncommon to gain weight during severe weather conditions, but there are ways to prepare and keep the weight off.

Prior to a storm, stock your refrigerator and pantry with healthy meals and snacks.  If you go overboard with snacking due to boredom, it is better to snack on fruit, cut up vegetables, or low calorie soups than chips and cookies.  Keep yourself and your children distracted from the kitchen by curing boredom with family time such as board games or reading together.

Keep your family active during a power outage with a fun and active dance party.  Circuit training is another way to keep active without requiring electricity.  Let each family member choose two or three exercise activities, such as jumping jacks or jump rope and do each activity 30 times.

Once the storm has subsided, let your children help in the cleanup.  Shoveling snow or carrying branches are great strength exercises.

Whatever activities you choose, keep it fun and your children will enjoy the family time!