As grown-ups, we are all too familiar with the ‘January Blues’. It’s colder, darker and the holiday season leaves us tired and often out-of-pocket!

However, it’s important to remember that your little ones can feel affected too. It’s easy to forget that our children are very receptive and absorb information around them like a sponge.

It’s completely normal for you and your little ones to feel like this in January, and luckily there are some things you can do to improve your mood!

Getting plenty of PLAY!

Now, we obviously LOVE this one! But it is so true, and we even have some science to back it up. Play is incredibly important for improving the cognitive, physical, social and emotional well-being of children.

When our little ones are running around, climbing, swinging, jumping and interacting with other children then their brains increase the amount of serotonin, and they release more endorphins which are the things that make us feel happy! Play also protects children from the effects of stress, which in the long term can be harmful to their mental health.

Let’s not forget that they will burn off lots of energy, and they will be looking forward to a much-needed bedtime for ever-important sleep.

Spending some quality time together

There’s nothing better than hugs from the people you love, are there? A fantastic way to turn those frowns upside down when it’s blowing a gale outside is to get your pyjamas on, wrap up warm with your favourite blankets and watch a film or read a book together.

When it’s a bit drier outside, getting as much exposure to daylight is also important… there’s so little of it in January! Pop on your coats, scarves and gloves and go for a walk outside while the sky is blue.

Memories forged like this last a lifetime, and you can’t underestimate the power of spending time together and making each other smile.

Make sure they’re getting delicious and nutritious meals

We know that kids can be fussy little eaters, and we just want them to enjoy whatever we put on their plates. What we can do as parents and caregivers is make sure we find the right balance.

Alongside their favourite treats, try and include fruit and vegetables. When they’re thirsty give them some sugar-free juice. It’s all about balance!

Make a start with point number one and book your play session at one of our sites here: https://playvalley.co.uk