Nine ways to beat the winter blues

• Stay light
  We can often feel low in winter, as we are taking in less sunlight, and many adults and some children are affected by Seasonal Affected Disorder (SAD). Even though the sun may not be streaming through your windows, it's important to make sure the children get enough natural daylight, so make sure you get out everyday.
• Laugh
  Make sure your family has lots of laughs together. Children are great at this. Children love making up jokes or you could dig out an old joke book or swap jokes on our message board. You could have family stand-up nights where each member entertains the rest of the family. Or rent a fun family favourite DVD. Swap jokes on iVillage's Mums of Children Aged 5-12 message board.
• Do a good deed
  There is nothing better than doing something good for someone else. It would be a treat for the whole family to work together and do something lovely for someone that needs it. Watch everyone's mood change as you see the happy face of the recipient.
• Smiley faces
  If you do nothing else on this list, but smile, you will be on your way to beating the winter blues. Ask your family to try to smile but have really sad thoughts. Try and make a really sad face while having happy thoughts. It is amazing that it is practically impossible. The more we smile, the better we will feel about ourselves.

Relax Kids is a series of relaxation classes for kids designed to build their self-esteem and also help them learn how to relax by using their imagination through play. www.relaxkids.com.

Share your tips for keeping the kids entertained over winter on iVillage's Mums of Children Aged 5-12 message board.