Winter fun

It's been a mild winter, but even so, it's a challenging time of year to keep the kids away from the screens — television and otherwise — and get them moving in a healthy, fun way.

Kelly Sturgis, district child care director for the Capital District YMCA, has a few suggestions for getting through the winter months and beyond.

Ice skating: The majority of outdoor skating in the Capital Region is free; a public skating session at one of the indoor rinks costs just a few bucks. The YMCA has an ice skating rink in Delmar. "It's a great way for the family to have fun together, but also be active together," Sturgis says.

Swimming: Indoor pools offer another activity you can do in winter. The YMCA has a free Family Fun Night once a month. The day varies from branch to branch, so check the Y's website or Facebook page for details.

Sledding: OK, we know, it would be a dry ride right now. But there are still two more months of possible snowfall in the Capital Region. Keep your fingers crossed. "That's something the kids are always enjoying and the bonus for the parents is the kids are going to be tired at the end of the day," Sturgis says.

The park: You can use sidewalk chalk to make four square or hopscotch boards. "I'm a huge advocate for going to the park," Sturgis says. "Buying a ball or a piece of chalk can make a lot of fun games right in your own backyard."

Obstacle courses/scavenger hunts: Parents can set up obstacle courses or scavenger hunts inside or outside. Grab things around the house and make them part of it. Have kids do 10 jumping jacks at one station. Have them do push-ups and sit-ups. Have them see if they can stand on one foot. Give them a map have them look for things and at the end, give a prize.

Traditional games: Hide and seek, duck, duck goose — go back to those basic, simple games you learned in school and can do in a small area. Check out websites for game ideas or activities that don't cost anything.

Dance, dance: Throw yourself a dance party or play freeze dance. Play the music, and when you stop the music; if you're still dancing, you're out.

If you're going to go with video games ...: Wii is the best of the options, because you do have to get physical and move, especially the dance games.

And when you finally can get back outdoors: Get back to basics. Play basketball with your kids, go ride on a bike. Take a walk together.

"You're getting exercise outside in the fresh air and you're talking to your kids, which is extremely important," Sturgis said.