3 Outdoor Winter Activities to Help Manage Anxiety in Children 5-10 Years Old

• Winter Nature Walk: Go for a winter nature walk, observing how the landscape changes with the season. Encourage your child(ren) to look for animal tracks in the snow or notice how the trees look in winter.
  • Walking in nature helps children disconnect from anxious thoughts and focus on their surroundings. It’s also an excellent opportunity for parents to model mindfulness by engaging in deep breathing or noticing the beauty of the winter environment together.
• Winter Scavenger Hunt: Click to access a winter scavenger hunt for your child(ren). You can do this in your backyard, a nearby park, or a forested area.
  • A scavenger hunt encourages focus and gives children a sense of purpose. The activity fosters exploration and curiosity, helping them engage with the world around them in a positive, calming way.
• Hot Chocolate and Snow Play: After spending time outdoors, warm up by making a batch of hot chocolate and sit together in the backyard to sip and relax.
  • Enjoying a warm drink after outdoor play is comforting and helps kids feel safe and secure. It also allows for bonding time after active play and can be a great way to wind down and talk about the day.