Even with COVID-19 putting a damper on some favorite cold weather activities, you can still get in some seasonal fun this winter. And even if warmer temperatures are (hopefully) not far away, you’re probably struggling to keep kids entertained when it’s gray and chilly out. If you’re looking for things to do to fill the rest of your winter days, try these cold weather activities that the whole family will love.
1. Winter Walks
If you live somewhere with winter temperatures that are usually above freezing, getting out for a winter walk can be a nice chance to get out of the house and get moving. If it’s still chilly, bundle up a bit and explore your neighborhood or a local trail. You can have kids observe the changes in the environment that come with the winter season.
2. Winter-Themed Arts and Crafts
Another one of our favorite hands-on cold weather activities is creating winter arts and crafts. This list from Projects With Kids has lots of ideas for different ages and different wintery themes. Craft time is another opportunity to reinforce math skills like counting and measuring. They can also help hone fine motor skills and unleash creativity.
3. Make Winter Treats
Whether you have traditional family recipes or are looking for some new favorites, winter treat making can be a fun family activity. Cooking and baking can provide an opportunity for younger kids to practice measuring or sharpen their motor skills. For inspiration, check out Delish’s list of kid-friendly recipes.
4. Encourage Reading
If it’s chilly out or if your family members are just looking for some new entertainment, turn off Netflix and have a designated reading time during the day. If your local library is open, you can follow the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) guidelines to prevent getting sick and browse the shelves. There are also digital books and audiobooks available from your local library or subscription services.
5. Watch New Movies, Settle in for a Movie Night
Remember what we said about turning off Netflix? You can break that rule to enjoy this trusty cold weather activity. Movie nights can be a really fun way to spend the evening with family. You can introduce kids to classic favorites or discover new films to enjoy together. Pop some popcorn or make some hot chocolate to up the coziness factor.
6. Have a Game Night
Pick a night each week to get together for some friendly family competition. Break out a board game or a card game for some easy fun. Whether it’s a game of strategy or chance, a nice game night is one of the easiest cold weather activities for the whole family.
7. Look For Ways to Help Others
No matter the season, you can find ways to help others in your community. Whether you sign up to deliver meals to those who can’t go out themselves or clean out your closets to donate warm clothes, giving back makes everyone feel good.
Make an Appointment
The board-certified pediatricians and staff at Wake Forest Pediatrics are dedicated to providing quality care to patients in Wake Forest and Knightdale. Our comprehensive approach focuses on teamwork and open communication with patients and parents. If you have questions about your child’s health and development, call our Wake Forest office at 919-556-4779 or our Knightdale office at 919-266-5059 to make an appointment.
