BRRR! Winter weather makes it easy to stay inside and cozy up with our tablet, TV, or smartphone. In fact, studies show that when the temperature drops, screen time goes up. In a season that tends to be dominated by digital devices, it’s crucial to carve out time for kids to connect with the real world, encouraging imagination, education, and fun family bonding. Try some (or all!) of these activities that foster creativity, movement, and lasting memories.
Snow sculptures
When there’s snow on the ground, encourage your little ones to go beyond the snowman and channel their inner sculptor. Provide tools like buckets, shovels, and cookie cutters, and add a burst of colour with spray bottles filled with water and food colouring.
No snow? Make some!
Fake snow is fun to play with and very easy to make. Grab a bowl and mix together 4 cups of baking soda and 1 cup of any hair conditioner. Transfer it to a sensory bin or plunk it on the table and start squishing! It’s a melt-free, low-mess, indoor snow experience that teaches the magic of chemistry and physics. Who knew learning could be this cool?
Winter nature scavenger hunt
Create a list of whimsical wintery items for a nature-themed scavenger hunt, such as pinecones, icicles, and animal tracks. You can do this at the playground, public park, or your own backyard. Searching for natural treasures instills an appreciation for the outdoors and encourages exploration.
Ice skating (indoor or outdoor)
Take advantage of community ice rinks to build balance and coordination skills while enjoying the winter chill. Whether indoors or out, expert or amateur, skating with friends and family is always a good time!
Indoor obstacle course
On your mark, get set, go! Grab some cushions, chairs, blankets, toys, boxes – whatever you can find – and design an indoor obstacle course, set the timer and the race is on. This not only enhances motor skills but also provides an energetic outlet on colder days.
Winter-themed crafts
Explore various creative activities to keep boredom at bay during the winter season. Try your hand at making paper snowflakes, painting winter scenes, or crafting pom-pom snowmen. These hands-on artistic projects not only entertain kids on cold days but also encourage creativity, self-expression, and practice hand-eye coordination.
Storytelling by the fireplace
Create a cozy setting by the fireplace (or fireplace channel) for a storytelling session. You can make one up, read a book, or try a one-word-at-a-time story! Each player says just one word before passing on to the next person, trying to create a cohesive and entertaining story by building upon each other’s words. This sparks imagination and creativity, and gets everyone involved. Be ready for unexpected twists and humorous outcomes!
Winter camping in the living room
Set up a mini indoor camping site with a tent or fort and sleeping bags. Add some fairy lights for a twinkling sky effect! This fosters a sense of adventure and allows for a unique overnight experience within the comfort of your home.Don’t have a kids tent on hand? Use blankets and bed linens for a make-shift fort!
Healthy fun in the kitchen
Explore the joy of cooking together by trying out new recipes that are fun, simple, and nutritional! This delicious Wholesome Hot Chocolate is something we know you’ll love, and will warm everyone up on a chilly winter day. Or if they’re craving ice cream or popsicles? Try these homemade immune-boosting frozen treats.
Winter printables
Don’t worry about staying within the lines. Colouring helps kids develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and even learn about colours and boost creativity. So, grab those crayons and let the colourful adventures begin! Print off one of these for a relaxing and artistic indoor activity.
From fostering creativity to enhancing family bonds, these screen-free activities provide a much-needed break from digital screens, allowing kids to revel in the wonders of winter and create cherished memories and skills that last a lifetime. Let the winter adventures begin!
