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Physicians Plus is making a special effort to remind grownups that there is a wonderland of winter activity around them and that the holidays are the perfect time to introduce kids to it all. Physicians Plus looked at trends, talked with pediatricians and went shopping to develop a unique list of suggested gifts that will get kids jumping, sliding and running.
- MAKE TRACKS – Kids will love making tracks with these colorful snowshoes shaped like giant animal paws. The Redfeather Snowpaws Snowshoes are great for kids up to 40 lbs. and retail for under $20 at REI.
- WHEELS – A bicycle is a classic holiday gift for kids – and you can’t get any more classic than a Schwinn®. Kids are sure to spend more time on their new bike exploring the neighborhood than sitting on the couch. Local company, Pacific Cycle, Inc., produces great Schwinn bikes for kids. Try the 20-inch, Schwinn Powermatic Mag for boys or the 24-inch, Schwinn Ranger 2.4 FS for girls. Both bikes retail for less than $150 and are available at Target.
- SLED – Don’t underestimate this timeless winter activity. Sledding is a great workout and can be done on a small hill right in your neighborhood or make an afternoon of it and find the biggest hill around. A new sled is all it will take to get your child running out the door to the nearest slope. Find one for as little as $10 at $10 at locally owned Play it Again Sports locations. Make sure to pick one up for yourself too!
- PACK – SwissGear Delemont Illuminated Daypack - Retailing at Gander Mountain and Sports Authority for under $30, it has Electroluminescent Lighting (EL) technology piped across the front of the pack. EL lighting is an active light source and is visible for up to 400 feet, very important for the dark winter months in Wisconsin, so kids (and parents) can feel safe walking to and from school and being outside.
- DANCE – Dance has as many forms as kids have personalities. Find a style that appeals to your child and sign them up for a trial lesson. Don’t have time for lessons? Get them something for home like the popular Dance Dance Revolution® game that can be hooked up to a computer, television or game system. Find several versions of Dance Dance Revolution at Best Buy.
- SKATE –Skateboarding is growing in popularity and it’s a great workout that can be done all year, but make sure to wear a helmet! Stop by Four Seasons Skate Park in Madison to see talented skaters in action. Four Seasons rents all the gear and will be offering instruction soon.
- BOARD – Snowboarding is a great winter activity. Start by renting gear and take a trial lesson. If your child likes it, you may have found them an active hobby they can enjoy the rest of their life. Contact Tyrol Basin Ski Hill at 608-437-4754 and ask about the lessons they offer for $25 per hour including the gear. Try it out for yourself too!
- HIE YAH! – Karate will not only give your child strength and balance, it will teach skills that will help with focus and self-control. Kicks Unlimited has two locations in Madison and offers a free trial, call (608) 288-8466 for more information.
- SNAP – A digital camera is one gift that will get kids out of their seat. But don’t just give your child a camera, encourage them to get out and explore. Try the Kid's Tough Digital Camera by Fisher-Price, available in a boys and girls model suitable for kids as young as three. It can be found at Target and retails for under $60.
- BLADES – Give kids a slice of ice with their very own set of ice skates. There are two styles - hockey and figure – and both have great designs for boys and girls available locally at Fontana Sports locations.
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