Two-time Olympic champion Helen Glover, a mother of three, has emphasized the importance of outdoor activities for families during the winter season when children tend to spend less time outside. According to Glover, many families require motivation to venture outdoors, particularly in colder and wetter conditions. Research indicates that children now spend an average of just five hours per week outdoors during winter, a significant drop from nine hours in the summer months.

In a survey of 1,000 parents with children aged 4-12, it was found that 31% of kids are outside for 20 minutes or less each day in winter. This statistic highlights a concerning trend where a majority of children exhibit reluctance to engage in outdoor activities, commonly citing excuses like the fear of catching a cold or being too busy. Additionally, an overwhelming 86% of parents admitted they needed a specific task or excuse to motivate their families to participate in outdoor play, pointing to a growing issue of inactivity amongst young children during the colder months.

Glover has proposed twenty engaging outdoor activities tailored for families to help counteract this trend, encouraging them to embrace the colder weather and remain active. By providing these suggestions, she aims to combat the hibernation mentality prevalent among parents and children alike, fostering a culture of outdoor play despite the seasonal challenges. The implication is clear: getting families outside can have positive effects on health and well-being, making it essential to find ways to stay active and enjoy the winter landscape.