The festive season is a magical time, but keeping children active during the holidays can sometimes be a challenge. Between shorter days, colder weather, and the excitement of Christmas, it’s easy for kids to end up sitting around with screens. At PH Camps, we know how important it is for children to stay active, have fun, and burn off energy safely while enjoying festive traditions. That’s why we’ve put together a range of simple, fun ways to get children moving, both indoors and outdoors, while keeping the Christmas spirit alive.

Outdoor Adventures

Even in winter there are plenty of ways to enjoy the fresh air and get children moving. At PH Camps we love encouraging outdoor play and you can bring some of that energy into your own garden or local park. From Christmas scavenger hunts to winter walks with a festive bingo twist outdoor activities keep kids exploring, curious and active. Simple games like a snowball toss or target challenges using soft balls or rolled-up socks can transform a chilly afternoon into a playful adventure. These activities encourage movement and help children connect with nature while making the most of the winter season.

Get inspired: Christmas Nature Scavenger Hunt for Kids – YouTube

Indoor Dance and Movement

When it’s too cold outside there are plenty of ways to keep children moving indoors. A silly Christmas dance party is a fantastic way for kids to burn off energy, enjoy music and get creative with movement. At PH Camps we love putting on Just Dance between sessions to keep the energy alive and make sure children are having fun while staying active. You can recreate this at home by encouraging little ones to make up their own dances or follow along with simple routines. Freeze dance games where kids stop moving when the music pauses are always a hit. These indoor activities are fun and help develop coordination, rhythm and confidence in movement in a playful festive way.

Dance along: KIDZ BOP Kids – Christmas Dance Along – YouTube

Christmas-Themed Games

Adding a festive twist to classic games keeps the excitement alive during the holidays. Simple ideas like pin the nose on Rudolph, reindeer races or snowflake tosses are perfect for getting children active while enjoying holiday-themed fun. At PH Camps we know that combining play with a festive theme keeps children engaged for longer. Musical chairs with Christmas music or mini obstacle courses around the living room can turn a quiet afternoon into a lively session full of laughter and energy.

Festive Fitness Challenges

Short bursts of playful movement are a great way to keep kids active during the holiday season. Try “Santa squats”, “tree stretches” or “snowflake jumps” in quick fun challenges. These activities are ideal for little ones who may need extra encouragement to stay moving indoors and can be adapted for all ages. At PH Camps we regularly include themed fitness challenges in our holiday camps to make physical activity fun and exciting. Bringing these ideas into your home is a great way to keep children fit while adding play and creativity to the Christmas countdown.

Make It a Family Affair

The most important part of all these activities is enjoying them together. Join in, get silly and make movement part of your family Christmas traditions. At PH Camps we know that active play builds confidence, coordination and happy memories and these festive activities are a great way to bring the family together. Children will stay active while everyone shares laughter, bonding and fun making this Christmas a truly memorable one.