Don't Let Winter Coop Up The Kids

by Richard Toulson

Winter days can be an excuse to board up the family and fight the conditions inside on the couch.

But when the TV or computer start to drone your children into restlessness—or the cabin fever gets overwhelming for you—bundle up everyone and go out into the chilly weather. It’s invigorating!

And there’re plenty of fun activities that you can only do when your neighborhood is covered in white!

*Traditional Fun*

For big kids, there are the traditional thrills of sledding. Look for smaller bumps so little kids can join. Or hop on the sled yourself, holding the youngest in your lap.

The nostalgia itself will put you in the winter spirit. The very small children can trace a “track” with a spoon or a stick, stand at the top of the hill, and race balls down. Watch to see which gets to the bottom first!

Skiing and snowboarding is also tried-and-true fun for the older kids, and you don’t even have to spend the money on a lift ticket if you find a good hill nearby.

To try something a little different on the mountain, rent snow blades. They’re like ice skates for the snow and aren’t as cumbersome as skis. Strap on the snowshoes and go for a nature walk with the whole family, having the kids look out for birds or animals that are also braving the cold.

When the big kids are building snowmen, ask the smaller ones to build mini snow babies. Make it a game for the older kids by having them race to see who can build a snowman first.

*Winter Crafts*

Grab a magnifying glass and turn the attention toward the snow itself. Look up-close at snowflakes, then when the kids go back inside, have them draw or cut out what they saw.

Before you bundle everyone up in snow gear, mix some water with food coloring, grab paintbrushes from the craft drawer, and have everyone paint pictures in the snow.

When the paint runs out, have kids draw pictures with their bodies. Sure you have the standard snow angels, but what about snow monsters? Or a snow family.

*Stay-Warm Activities*

Have a snow picnic, except exchange lemonade for hot cocoa and put some soup in the thermos. Spread out a blanket and pretend it’s a day at the beach. Have everyone build snow castles and dig.

The older kids can dig snow tunnels to get from one place to another, if you’re in an area that gets feet upon feet of snow.

If there’s not enough snow, have everyone invite their friends over, or head to the local playground, and play capture the flag. Build forts or protection on each side and use snowballs to capture their opponents.

* About The Author *

Richard Toulson loves snow and winter sports. He's a particular fan of snowboarding and runs the popular Snowboard Sale website, helping other enthusiasts to save money on winter sports equipment.