Winter Olympics Fun: Let the Games Begin!

It is time for the Winter Olympics again! You can spark the Olympic spirit at home with these fun homemade winter Olympic games and projects. Invite the children to participate in an opening ceremony with original flags, marching around the room to the Olympic theme song, and most important, raising a foiled torch to let the Winter Games begin. Here are just a few activities ideas to get you started.

Exercise Today—Athletes Tomorrow: For Babies and Toddlers

Exercise releases endorphins in the body that keep your child mentally and emotionally upbeat and alert. A lifetime habit of daily exercise will help your child maintain flexibility, strengthen bones, increase immunity to infection, combat weight problems, and encourage self-esteem. It's never too early to start! Exercise is also a great way to relax a tense infant. Cycle those legs, rub those arms, pat the tummy, and shake the fingers. If you hum or sing a lullaby, this will aid the relaxation process.

A fun Olympic game for baby is the classic "tug-of-war." Sew a loop of elastic through a thread spool. Let your baby grasp the spool while you pull gently on the loop. Baby will think this is great fun, while in turn you are exercising his and your arms.

Wish you had your toddler's boundless energy and pep? Turn your little one into your best exercise partner. Whether you have a tape or video (it could be yoga, aerobics, or dance) your toddler will continue to imitate you by raising his toe, arm, or leg when he sees you lifting yours. Not only is this fun and good for you, it is excellent practice for your youngster and will help him coordinate and develop his large motor skills.

Little ones love to crawl in and out of hoops. Set up five hula hoops (red, green, black, yellow, and blue) to represent Olympic rings. Invite toddlers to walk and jump into these hoops. These Olympic rings represent the world's five major continents and are interlocked to show friendship among the nations.