As autumn settles in and winter approaches, many families notice that children’s motivation can dip. Shorter days, colder weather, and darker evenings often make it harder to stay active, engaged, and positive. Yet with a few simple strategies, parents can help children thrive through the season. At Surbiton High School, we embed these principles into everyday life, and they can be adapted by families at home too.
Making the Most of Outdoor Time
Fresh air and natural light are powerful mood boosters, even when the weather is less inviting. A short daily walk, a bike ride, or a playful game outside can lift spirits and improve focus. Seasonal activities such as collecting colourful leaves, spotting winter birds, or planting bulbs for spring add a sense of achievement and connection to nature.
At Surbiton High School, pupils benefit from Forest School sessions for Prep children, games lessons at our Hinchley Wood grounds, and river walks along the Thames. These opportunities remind us that outdoor activity is not just about exercise – it’s about building resilience, curiosity, and joy. Families can mirror this at home by making outdoor time a ritual, whether that’s a weekend park visit, a family dog walk, or even a quick stroll before dinner.
Encouraging Creativity Indoors
When the weather keeps families inside, creativity becomes an important outlet. Arts and crafts, baking, or puzzles can transform dreary afternoons into moments of joy. Music and drama are equally powerful; children might enjoy singing, dancing, or staging a mini play at home. Rotating activities keeps things fresh, while creating a “creative corner” with supplies makes it easy to start.
At Surbiton High School, our art, drama, and music programmes flourish during the winter months, with highlights such as the annual School Musical in November and festive celebrations at the end of term. Families can take inspiration from this by encouraging seasonal crafts, cooking together, or enjoying storytelling evenings. These moments not only nurture imagination but also strengthen family bonds.
Supporting Emotional Wellbeing
The darker months can affect children’s mood, so it’s important to nurture positivity. Simple rituals such as hot chocolate after school, a cosy family movie night, or reading together can bring warmth to the season. Journaling or gratitude exercises encourage reflection and help children focus on the good in each day. Consistent routines around sleep and mealtimes provide security, while opportunities to connect with friends or extended family help children feel supported.
At Surbiton High School, pastoral care is central to our ethos. Our wellbeing programme ensures children have opportunities for fun, reflection, and togetherness throughout the year. Parents can adopt similar approaches at home by celebrating small wins, encouraging open conversations, and modelling optimism.
Building Healthy Habits
Motivation is closely linked to physical health. Balanced meals, regular sleep, and hydration all play a role in keeping children energised. Winter can tempt us into comfort food and late nights, but maintaining healthy routines helps children feel their best. Families might try cooking hearty and nutritious meals together, setting consistent bedtimes, and encouraging children to drink water even when it’s cold outside!
At Surbiton High School, our sports facilities and clubs ensure pupils remain active throughout the year. Parents can support this by finding fun ways to keep children moving at home – whether through dance, yoga, or family fitness challenges.
Why This Matters
By weaving together outdoor activity, creative engagement, emotional support, and healthy routines, families can help children stay motivated and resilient throughout autumn and winter. These strategies are simple, adaptable, and effective, ensuring that children continue to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, whatever the season brings. At Surbiton High School, we are proud to embed these principles into everyday life, and we hope families can take inspiration to create their own traditions at home.