Winter activities to get your teen out of the house

Winter means that your teen may be spending more time than usual at home playing video games, watching TV, surfing the Internet and listening to music. Outdoor winter sports can be very beneficial to health, as the body burns more calories to keep warm. It is especially good for the heart and lungs. Indoor sports are also beneficial. Intense activity releases endorphins which help improve mood. If you want to get your teen out of the house to get some exercise and socialization time with friends (in person, not texting!), here are some activities they might like that are located in the Ontario County area.

Bowling
This sport is good exercise and a lot of fun. It’s also a great environment to meet up with friends and make new ones.

Sunset Bowl. 29 Border City Rd., Waterloo, NY. Open bowling through April 2013. www.bowlatsunset.com.

Roseland Bowl. 4357 Recreation Drive, Canandaigua, NY. www.roselandbowl.com.

Ice Skating
This seasonal sport is a great way for teens to get exercise, build endurance and enjoy time with friends. Lessons might be a good idea for those who are new to skating.

Geneva Recreation Complex. 666 S. Exchange St., Geneva, NY. Public skating through March 10, 2013. Lessons available. www.geneva.ny.us.

Skiing/Snowboarding
Do you want to get your child outside for some fresh air and exercise? Skiing and snowboarding burn a ton of calories. If your child is new to this sport, make sure they get some lessons first.

Bristol Mountain Ski Resort. 5662 Route 64, Canandaigua, NY. Skiing and snowboarding lessons available. Peak schedule Dec. 14 - March 10, 2013. www.bristolmountain.com.

Roller skating
Younger teens might enjoy this retro activity where they can listen to popular music, socialize with friends and get some aerobic exercise.

Geneva Rollerdrome. 214 Lyons Road, Geneva, NY. Open skating Saturdays 7:30-9:30 pm; Sundays 3-5pm. www.genevarollerdrome.com.

Advertisement

, Ontario County Family & Parenting Examiner

Denise Vandy is the mother of two children and the eldest of five children. She has degrees in early childhood, elementary and middle school education. She has also worked as a case manager for at-risk youth and pregnant and parenting teens. You may contact Denise with your comments and questions.

Today's top buzz...