It is just under a week until half term and we are looking forward to a week with no homeschooling.

We always go away for February half term, or at least book in some fun, family days out, but this year is very different now that we are in lockdown, so my thoughts are turning to ways to keep the kids entertained.

How to get the kids outside for their daily exercise during lockdown

Getting out for a daily exercise is good for everyone’s mental health and although initially getting the kids out the house can be a challenge, they all enjoy it when they are out.

Depending on the kids ages, there are several ways of making their daily exercise fun and enjoyable.

The Daily Steps Challenge

If the kids have their own smart watch, or smart phone, set them a daily steps challenge. My three get very competitive over who can get the most steps done in one day.

Play augmented reality mobile games

We have found games can be a great help with persuading the kids to get outside. Pokemon Go and Wizards Unite are particular favourites as these reward you for your steps and the lure of a gym, pokestop or inn can encourage the kids to walk a little bit further.

Play Nature Detective

This time of year, when the branches are free from leaves, is a great way of spotting wildlife.

We love the I-Spy range of books where you collect points outdoors every time you spot an animal or bird from the book. It is great for helping to identify them too.

Jump in Muddy Puddles

It doesn’t matter how old you are, jumping through muddy puddles is great fun.

Just beware of the deep spots, or you will be emptying cold water out of your boots.

Get on your bike

Cycling combines physical exercise with being outdoors and exploring new views, as you can explore slightly further afield.

Just remember that you need to need to cycle back again, so don’t go too far.

Get on your scooter

If cycling isn’t your thing, why not get on a scooter.

They are especially good for little ones as it makes them travel a bit further, plus you can pull them along if they get tired.

Take something they can play with

If you are heading to somewhere with open space, take something the kids can play with, for example, a football, frisbee or our favourite – a stomp rocket.

We have two different stomp rocket sets now, the original and the stunt plane, where the wings are angled so they perform some fun tricks.

Plan a day using the weather

February is one of the best months to get snow, so take advantage of any flurries and get outside and build a snowman, enjoy a snowball fight or sledge down a really big hill.

If you don’t get any snow, take advantage of the cold snap and crunch your way through some frozen puddles, it is a very satisfying sound as you break through the ice!!

Or, if it is stubbornly mild, go hunting for a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow.

Do a Scavenger Hunt

Make a list of things for your children to find as you walk around the neighbourhood, park or local area.

Depending on the size of their treasure, you can either pop their finds in a bag and then create your own artwork masterpiece when you get home, or build the ultimate nature art picture, or den whilst you are still exploring.

Try geocaching with kids

A treasure hunt is always a winner and this is one for the digital generation. All you need is a handheld GPS, or a smart phone and a sense of fun.

A geocache or ‘cache’ is a small waterproof treasure box hidden outdoors. You can go out specifically to find them, or open the app during a walk to see if there are any nearby. They are not always easy to find!!

What do you have planned for half term?