FREE SPORTS FOR THE LITTLIES

COOL SPORTS FOR LITTLE KIDS

As a mum of two wild - ummm, I mean energetic - boys, I know the importance of getting the kids outside and just letting them burn off some energy.  With my oldest beginning Prep this year, I started looking for some FREE after school sporting activities.  I was after activities that were local and also relaxed (ie no need to book, and if you don't feel like turning up one week, that's a-okay).

I stumbled across the "Sports for Little Kids" on the Brisbane City Council website and it fits the bill perfectly.  Run by Coolsports and provided free of charge by the Brisbane City Council, this activity is totally just a matter of turning up and joining in (or watching, or playing on the playground... whatever takes your kids' fancy).

Yesterday was week 3 of these activities and they have been absolutely fantastic for my boys.  My 5-year old is the oldest and the youngest are just learning to walk.  Parents are encouraged to join in and the kids do a whole range of games and activities that promote hand-eye coordination and general sports skills.

Here are some pics from our first week at our local, however there are similar activities held all over Brisbane, so you'll be sure to find one nearby.  Check out their website for more info http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/whats-on/audience/Kids-activities/index.htm#/?i=21. 

These days we can't escape the message about getting our kids off the couch and moving more - and we all know the physical, mental and social benefits of involving kids in sports and out of school activities - but for me there are two main benefits:

1. my own sanity - which is grave danger when I have both boys indoors for extended periods due to couch cushions being made into forts, lego boxes being emptied onto floors (for the 5th time that day!) and zoned-out kids infront of screen forgetting to get up and go to the toilet (I've become quite good at biting my tongue and "just breathing" when this one happens regularly).

2. happier bedtimes - which are earlier + less-stress due to absolutely knackered little boys who don't have the energy left to put up a fight.  Win-win!!

Oh and one last bonus is that I don't feel guilty for flicking on the tele when we get home, while I make dinner.  Woohoo - guilt-free screen time!

Have you found any other FREE/CHEAP after school activities that suit your family?  Drop me a line and let me know how you get your kids out and active.