Written by Mia.

Winter is a magical time filled with cozy moments and fun, festive activities. Whether you enjoy time inside or are looking for outdoor adventures, here are seven ways to keep your kids entertained and active this season.

1.   WINTER NATURE WALKS AND HIKES

Winter walks are a simple yet magical way to explore the outdoors with your kids. Layer yourselves in warm clothes and stroll through your neighborhood or head to a nearby park or nature trail.

Encourage your kids to notice how the trees look without leaves, the patterns of frost on the ground, or animal tracks in the snow in the colder months.

Make it educational by discussing how animals adapt to the cold, or consider turning it into a scavenger hunt to collect interesting winter-related objects like pinecones, icicles, and snowflakes.

Walking or hiking in nature offers fresh air and exercise and is a proven mental health advocate. It is one of the best ways to expose your kids to the beauty of nature in the colder months.

2.   SNOW PLAY (IF YOU'RE LUCKY!)

If you’re in a location where snow is abundant, take advantage of it! In addition to being fun, snow play is a fantastic sensory activity for kids. You can build snowmen, create snow angels, or have a gentle snowball fight.

For toddlers and preschoolers, snow is an exciting material to touch, feel, and even taste (though you might want to limit the latter). Older children may enjoy sledding, snowboarding, or racing down small hills.

3.   COZY PICNIC

Who says picnics are just for summer? Pack a basket with your kids' favorite snacks and have a cozy indoor meal. Spread a blanket in the living room and enjoy a brunch or snack together. To make the experience even more special, read a winter-themed book or play a game while you feast.

Indoor picnics are a great way to bond with your little ones while adding a touch of fun to mealtime. They're a simple but delightful way to break up the routine if you are stuck indoors due to winter weather.

4.   STORYTIME

Winter is the perfect time to snuggle up with your little ones and read a good book. Choose stories that feature snow, winter animals, or festive themes to make them relatable to the season. You can even create your own story by drawing pictures together and using them to make up tales about winter adventures.

Reading aloud is an excellent way to foster language development and comprehension in young children. Winter stories also help children understand the season and stimulate imaginative thinking. It's the perfect indoor winter activity for preschoolers and beyond!

5.   BUILD A FORT (WITH A TWIST)

Building forts is a classic indoor winter activity. Let your kids arrange pillows, blankets, and chairs to create their own hideaway. Inside the fort, they can play with toys, read books, or simply relax.

Building a fort helps children learn problem-solving and teamwork skills as they figure out how to make the structure stable and cozy. Supporting your child through these small tasks fosters independence and helps them adapt to unfamiliar situations. These moments help children build confidence and develop essential life skills.

If you’re a large family or it’s your turn to host the playdate, add fun by giving the fort purpose — have a snowball fight!

Who says you need snow to have a snowball battle? Create your own using white socks or soft fabric balls. Children can use cardboard boxes to build forts. Divide the group into teams and let them throw soft snowballs at each other from behind their forts. This activity brings out lots of giggles and helps children develop motor skills as they throw and catch.

6.   BAKING TOGETHER

There’s something special about baking during the winter months. The warmth of the oven and the delicious scents filling the house can make even the gloomiest days feel cozy.

Baking simple winter treats like cookies, cakes, or bread can be a delightful way to spend time together indoors. Children can help measure ingredients and decorate the treats with icing or sprinkles.

Your kids enjoy mixing and shaping dough, building excitement to taste the final product. Baking together teaches kids about following instructions, encourages teamwork and patience, and helps develop culinary acumen, skills they’ll use for years to come.

7.   DANCE PARTY

Sometimes, a dance party is all it takes to lift the mood on a cold winter day. Put on some fun, upbeat music and have everyone dance freely around the room.

Dancing is a great way to burn off some energy when the weather keeps you inside. It supports self-expression and helps kids develop coordination and balance.

Embrace the season and enjoy these wonderful winter activities with your kids. Indoors or outside, these activities are sure to keep your family engaged and happy.

Citations

1. American Hiking Society: Hiking is Nature’s Therapy

2. Califf Creations: Playing in the Snow: Benefits and Ideas

3. Research Gate: The Benefits of Reading Aloud for Children: A Review in EFL Context

4. Early Science Matters: Fort Building 101

5. CCA Educate: Encourage Your Child to Step Outside of Their Comfort Zone

6. New Horizon Academy: Involving Children in the Kitchen

7. PubMed Central: The Physiological and Psychological Benefits of Dance and its Effects on Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review