By: Corinne Bowser

Springtime here in Alabama is pretty great; the trees and flowers are in full bloom, and the sunshine and warmer weather beckons us all outside. My daughter, Amelia would typically be out in our cul-de-sac playing with her friends for hours at a time, or she would be headed to swimming lessons and recreation class with her brother and their friends at Lakeshore Foundation. Unfortunately, during this season of staying at home, she's more likely to sit and watch her favorite YouTube videos or Disney Channel shows.
 
Amelia was born with Spina Bifida; she is paralyzed and uses her wheelchair to get around. Staying active can be difficult for her even in normal times, so there's really been some pressure to make sure she stays active now. Variety is key for her, and so we've had to get a little creative with how to fit activity into our day. Thankfully, Lakeshore Foundation and our local Spina Bifida Association have made some great virtual classes and videos for us to take part in; seated Zumba and What's Your Name Fitness are two of her favorites.

We also try to do family activities like walks, bike rides, and playing basketball in our driveway. Honestly, though, our favorite family activity is our pre-dinner dance parties! Just being outside is important to our mental health, too, so we take meals, homework, and art time outside often.

When it comes down to it, I just ask the kids to move their bodies in some way every day. We've found that the best way to do that is to take several short activity breaks throughout the day and vary the activity each time. I even helped Amelia make a list of activities she can do by herself (like take a short walk, stretch, or turn on some music and dance), and then, even if we can't do something together, she can just pick the one that sound the most fun at that time!

(Published: 5/20/20)